Camping
I want to try camping. The problem is, I have NO idea what to do, where to go, what to buy, etc. And I have NO friends that I can utilize to help me learn. I am looking for classes/meetups, etc, but haven't found any for me so far or they are scheduled when I have previous commitments. I need to pay more attention to REI since they offer classes. I am not looking to do anything until next fall, so I still have time to check some out.
I kind of want to hike in instead of drive. I think it would be more peaceful. I was thinking of starting at a local park that has primitive spots. I can take a hike and check them out before I book or try anything out in the mountains (which is the ultimate goal). There is one place that I would LOVE to camp which only has drive in sites
I do have a day pack, but I'll need a bigger one for staying overnight. And a stove, sleeping bag and pad, tent (or, hopefully a hammock I saw the other day), food, tp, water filtration, lamp, and that's all I can think of at the moment.
Anyone have any tips, wisdom, etc? Has anyone attempted to start camping as an adult? There is one place that I would LOVE to camp which only has drive in sites, so any advice for that is welcome.
Thanks in advance!
I think this is the right forum - if not, feel free to move
I love camping. There are a few of us here who could write volumes in response.
For buying gear, I recommend checking out Ebay for used stuff or buying generic stuff direct from China through Ali-Express. The downside with both of those things is you can't return the stuff if you are unhappy with it. REI is expensive, but they take stuff back for any reason.
Ideally you should try camping before you commit to buying several hundred bucks worth of gear, but I don't know how you do that without joining a group or something and using their gear.
If you are unfamiliar with backpacking camping, there are a bunch of people on YouTube who talk about how they do it, and the gear they use. You watch videos from half a dozen folks, you can start to get an idea of what you will need.
With backpacking camping, you will need pretty lightweight and compressible stuff, which is normally more expensive. And then you take a hard look at what you really are going to need and don't take anything you don't need.
Rule of thumb is that you shouldn't exceed a pack weight that is more than 30% of your own weight. To be happy, you will want to be way less than that though. More like 15%-20% of your own weight.
I'd recommend finding a place with sites that are about one mile away from the parking lot. That's far enough to get some peace and quiet, but you won't kill yourself on your first excursion.
There are tons of worthless expensive products out there that you don't need. I bought a set of Coleman Peak backpacking cooking pots when I first started camping, and they were a complete waste of money. Awkward to use, heavy, an unhelpful size, you name it. [edit: I naively thought that because they nested inside each other and came in a stuff sack, they were cool.] I think a lot of beginners buy stuff they think they need because they see it in a store or catalog and just buy it. Sales clerks in stores are never going to tell you that you don't need an item you are looking at.
I've got a big backpacking trip with a Boy Scout crew that I'm leading in the summer. This will be in New Mexico where it will be in the 30s-40s in the morning and over 100 in the afternoon. There will be sun beating down, and also drenching thunderstorms.
They helpfully provide a packing list specific to their program. Broken down by personal gear and group gear. As a single person, you would have to carry everything yourself, so it would all be personal gear.
http://www.philmontscoutranch.org/TrekPreparation/WhattoBring.aspxThanks for all the information!
I love camping. There are a few of us here who could write volumes in response.
That's why I asked :D
For buying gear, I recommend checking out Ebay for used stuff or buying generic stuff direct from China through Ali-Express. The downside with both of those things is you can't return the stuff if you are unhappy with it. REI is expensive, but they take stuff back for any reason.
Ideally you should try camping before you commit to buying several hundred bucks worth of gear, but I don't know how you do that without joining a group or something and using their gear.
If you are unfamiliar with backpacking camping, there are a bunch of people on YouTube who talk about how they do it, and the gear they use. You watch videos from half a dozen folks, you can start to get an idea of what you will need.
I will check out YouTube. I know it's going to be expensive, but if I can return it, it would be better. It would be nice to have friends, but if I want to do this, I don't really have a choice.
With backpacking camping, you will need pretty lightweight and compressible stuff, which is normally more expensive. And then you take a hard look at what you really are going to need and don't take anything you don't need.
Rule of thumb is that you shouldn't exceed a pack weight that is more than 30% of your own weight. To be happy, you will want to be way less than that though. More like 15%-20% of your own weight.
Happily, that's quite a bit of weight - lol. That's another reason I was going to start out with just reservable areas in parks. Probably not just the first one, either. Then, as I get more comfortable with that, start doing some backcountry camping....or I may just stick with reservable spots.
I'd recommend finding a place with sites that are about one mile away from the parking lot. That's far enough to get some peace and quiet, but you won't kill yourself on your first excursion.
Both places I was thinking of are relatively close to parking, just not a drive up location, but it is something to think about.
There are tons of worthless expensive products out there that you don't need. I bought a set of Coleman Peak backpacking cooking pots when I first started camping, and they were a complete waste of money. Awkward to use, heavy, an unhelpful size, you name it. [edit: I naively thought that because they nested inside each other and came in a stuff sack, they were cool.] I think a lot of beginners buy stuff they think they need because they see it in a store or catalog and just buy it. Sales clerks in stores are never going to tell you that you don't need an item you are looking at.
I have another store down here called Great Outdoor Provisions that will actually tell you that you don't need something, so I have been going there to get my stuff. I know I can definitely overshop on a normal day.
One thing that I can't believe is that when you go camping and stay in the same spot, that you just leave all your stuff there. I mean, no one messes with it??
One thing that I can't believe is that when you go camping and stay in the same spot, that you just leave all your stuff there. I mean, no one messes with it??
I've never had my stuff messed with by humans.
Raccoons, wild horse, mice. That's another story.
I did camp in NJ last summer and didn't leave anything other than some relatively inexpensive tents out. I had a bad feeling about that place. It was a dump.
One tip I have for a cook system. Check this video out. Cheap, compact, pretty lightweight. I like this guy's thinking.
[YOUTUBE]00gwQ4z_nQQ[/YOUTUBE]
Yeah, back packers seem to be generally a decent bunch. Most thieves don't want to hike to steal! :) I did meet some sketchy people on the Appalachian trail but I think that was because we were pretty close to a town.
You can practice setting up in a yard somewhere to get things started. You want to be able top get your tent up properly, filter water, and feed yourself. Pour over maps make sure you have access to water. Keep dry. Watch the forecasts closely.
i just got word from the boss that we're on for a ADK New Years back packing trip again this year, which is very pleasing to me.
Youtube is great but I'd really advise seeking out an experienced person to go with just to smooth out the kinks.
Take care of your feet, bring extra socks and moleskin for blisters. Good socks and good boots are pretty important.
If you have never camped before, baby steps. work up to it. Buy a basic sleeping bag and cheap 2-man tent from Walmart or similar. A single burner propane stove, and small pan set from Walmart and just go local for a night or two, to your nearest state park. The whole cost of that should be less than a night in a hotel. You can use an old gallon milk jug as a water container. If you forget anything vital, or figure out other things you need (like a foam pad to sleep on) there will be a store nearby. If there isn't, pick a park where there is. We used to do a "last hurrah" in the summer camping about 20 minutes north of where we live. But it didn't matter. It still felt like the middle of nowhere. Plus we could run home or to Walmart if need be.
Yeah, don't bite off too much. There is a passion for peak bagging that pushes folks beyond their current abilities. It looks easier on paper until you get a sense of the terrain maps.
Oh, have fun!
Monster nailed it, baby steps. There are as many types of camping as Carter has little pills, as the objective, or a means to an end. Start with some basic equipment, camping in your or a friends yard. Make sure you understand how everything works and if you'll be happy with it or need more/less. You could also just take some short hikes carrying that stuff to see if it will be grueling or not, before setting off on an overnight trip. Forced marches are not fun. Also, if you plan to hike from point A to point C, stopping overnight at point B, you'll probably be happy with less gear than if you hike somewhere and set up camp for a couple nights.
ok, just to make sure everyone understands - No Friends. For anything. Why do you think I'm going in the woods alone? Or asking people on the internet instead of asking IRL people??
@glatt - I like that guy - I like putting everything in something - lol! Good to know about people. It just seems so weird to me
@Griff - Got good socks, need good boots. That's on the list to buy next year. Good idea on the moleskin, though. I can add that to my first aid kit, easily. The places I have picked out to start with have potable water nearby. They are off the hiking trails or off a road, so I am good there. I don't have to worry too much about that until I start back country camping.
@monster - the first park I am planning on staying in is right off civilization. Short walk to the store since all the parks here shut and lock the gates at a certain time. The other park is a bit more out in nowhere, but that's the one I will be driving up to, so I can cart more things. I think both are like $15 a night.
What do you guys think of a GPS device? That way, I can shut my phone off and preserve battery in case I need to call for anything. I need to get a portable charger for regular life, anyways, so I would just make sure to get one that can go camping, too.
Do campsites usually have wood if they have a fire pit or do you have to bring that in? I see notes not to take firewood OUT, so I assume they do?
Food is going to be interesting, to say the least. But there are LOADS of information about that out there. It'll be fun to see what I can put together.
Thanks for all the help!!
Do campsites usually have wood if they have a fire pit or do you have to bring that in? I see notes not to take firewood OUT, so I assume they do?
Depends on the site. The popular campgrounds will usually sell you wood. The less popular campsites will have enough dead wood lying around in the woods that you can gather your own for free. Around here, you are not supposed to transport wood to a park because you spread disease that way. Insects and fungus. Often there is a little country store close to the campground that will sell bundles of local wood.
What do you guys think of a GPS device? That way, I can shut my phone off and preserve battery in case I need to call for anything. I need to get a portable charger for regular life, anyways, so I would just make sure to get one that can go camping, too.
If you get one, make sure it's intended for camping/hiking. A GPS intended for driving won't be useful ("Hm. Green in all directions").
I wouldn't spend money on a GPS until you have everything else first. What good is a GPS if you don't have decent footwear yet?
If you get one, make sure it's intended for camping/hiking. A GPS intended for driving won't be useful ("Hm. Green in all directions").
Popdigr has a couple that leave a breadcrumb trail. Drops a dot every so often, like a waypoint, so you can not only find where you came from, you can find the exact way you came in.
Excellent for hunting/hiking.
Never heard of 'fire paste'. Great concept.
Vaseline-soaked cotton balls are an excellent fire starter.
I've got a big backpacking trip with a Boy Scout crew that I'm leading in the summer. This will be in New Mexico where it will be in the 30s-40s in the morning and over 100 in the afternoon. There will be sun beating down, and also drenching thunderstorms.
They helpfully provide a packing list specific to their program. Broken down by personal gear and group gear. As a single person, you would have to carry everything yourself, so it would all be personal gear.
http://www.philmontscoutranch.org/TrekPreparation/WhattoBring.aspx
Did you know there are two routes? The northern and southern trails. We took the northern. When we got back to the main station and described our trip to the southern bunch they said they wished they went north.
Unless you are a gourmet cook then only one pot is needed and get the Teflon type, because all aluminum is a bitch to clean. Then there is dehydrated food. Everything is edible except anything with potatoes. Tear the pack open and hold close to the pot. Any slight wind will blow the spices away. Get a collapsible water jug with handle that can be strapped to outside of pack. Also you need a bell to hang on the pack so you don't spook any bears.
When walking away from camp put your stuff in the tent.
Yes! We get to enter a lottery for our preferred route in February.
What Glatt said about wood. No GPS -certainly not on the first attempt. FIND OUT IF YOU LIKE IT FIRST. Hike a marked trail, don't go too far from your car. stay minimal -in expense as well as weight. I disagree w tarheel, a cheap aluminum pan set will be fine for the first venture out, It's light, disposable (financially) after the trip is over so it doesn't matter if you don't do a great clean-up job, and having more than one pan is helpful if you want to boil water for hot drink as well as cook food. Also, dried meals are disgusting and enough to put you off camping for life. Take real food as much as space and time allow. Pasta, canned corned beef and tomato paste (get a tube not a can) can make pretty tasty/satisfying eating after a day's hiking.
Argh! I wrote a three page response with tips and advice and everything, then accidentally erased it all. I *hate* the touchpad!
ok, just to make sure everyone understands - No Friends. For anything. Why do you think I'm going in the woods alone?
Okay, but hear me out for just a second. People who have lots of camping experience regularly get lost, and subsequently die, in the woods. Even with a GPS unit. Someone with no camping experience is even more likely to do so. Please at least
tell someone where you're going, in specific detail, and when they should expect you back, so if you don't show up they'll alert the park service.
Also, watch the movie
127 hours. A.) It's fucking awesome, B.) it's a true story, and C.) the moral of the story is apropos.
I don't disagree with anyone here.
The problem is that you can spend a ton of money before you even find out if you like it. And even people who do a lot of camping are often reevaluating the gear they use. The opportunities to spend money never go away.
The absolute best thing to do is to go camping with somebody who already has all the gear so you don't have to spend anything. I know you said that's not really an option. Keep looking for group events. If you aren't planning on anything until next fall, you have lots of time. why wait though? Spring camping is fun too, and you don't have to commit to a week long adventure or anything. Just go out on a Saturday morning and come back on Sunday.
If you really decide you want to buy a bunch of gear, come back and talk about each item. So much of this is specific to what you want to do and also your style. Camping choices are just as personal as everything else in life. It's actually fun to go to a big crowded campground and walk around to see how everyone has their site set up.
I'm not such a fan of buying disposable junk gear to get started and then buying the more expensive good stuff after a while. You can find good stuff for a moderate price and use it for years if you shop around and ask for advice about specific items here.
If you don't clean your cookware properly then you will spend some time squatting in the woods. Be careful not to use poison ivy leaves to wipe your butt.
@glatt - I am getting new boots. I'll be hiking in the mountains in January, so I need them soon. I think the GPS would be helpful even if I am just hiking and I plan to do that regardless if I continue camping. I agree with the cost. I don't have to wait until fall, I suppose. I was looking for something to do to relax in April after a long training schedule, so I was thinking of trying then. I am looking at classes at REI, but some of those cost $70+ without any equipment cost.
@lumberjim - I will keep those in mind - thanks!
@Gravdigr - that's a good idea. I can look for one of those......I've gotten lost in a trailed park before. It's easy to lose the trail in the leaves!!
@monster - this isn't my first time in the woods, ever. I hike regularly.
@Pamela - sorry, that sucks :(
@Clodfobble - I always let someone know when I am hiking on the mountain trails far from home. At the local trails, there is constant cell service. I make sure to research the parks I hike at. There's one that will send out search and rescue if your car is still in the lot at closing, so they have suggestions on information to leave. I would do the same with camping. I think with camping, I have to check in and out with the rangers, so they would definitely know. I was even thinking of seeing if there was a GPS that someone could follow online.
@captainhook - I can buy biodegradable toilet paper - poison ivy threat REMOVED! :D
sorry I offended by not being clear, I was talking about the camping, not the hiking. I wish you all he best whatever you decide
You seem pretty adamant about a GPS, and that's cool. It's your choice. You might want to check out apps for your phone first, because there are a handful of hiking GPS apps out there. An Anker battery charger to keep your phone topped off is a lot cheaper than a GPS unit. You download the maps to your phone, and then you don't even need a cell signal because the GPS will work without it if you have the maps on your phone.
[YOUTUBE]Kyar4BEhy18[/YOUTUBE]
tldr of the video is some good apps are:
Guthook's Hiking Guide
Gaia
Google Maps
All Trails
@monster - there was no offense. It just seemed like the assumption was there that I hadn't ever entered the woods. I appreciate the input, I just wanted to clarify
@glatt - Do you think it's not necessary on solo hikes? I've been doing longer mountain hikes lately and want to continue regardless of camping future. I figured it was something I could use that would help people find me, but I wasn't sure. I was going to do more research. There are some that can send out an SOS signal.
I used runkeeper last time and my phone barely (I accidentally shut it off near the end) lasted the entire hike which is why I was thinking of a dedicated GPS. Do you think these apps will still work without data and wifi? I think if I turn those off, I can squeeze some more battery out if it. How do you download the maps? Does that just come with the apps?
I've never used the apps, but my understanding of them is that you download the maps from the app (paid) and then you can turn off the cell signal and wifi to save batteries. You turn on GPS only, and the GPS tracks you in the downloaded map on the phone. There is no SOS feature.
I'd be curious to know how the GPS units you are talking about send an SOS. Do they use satellite phones? I've heard of the inReach. My sister has one of those that she uses when she and her partner are hundred of miles from the nearest road. It lets you send text messages for like a buck a text, using satellite service.
@glatt - I'll see if I can find it again and post it here.
Here it is. It's on this
list
Direct to specific GPS
link
There's another on
this list that's more expensive
Direct to specific GPS
link
This is the best "budget" one on both lists with no SOS option, but not a bad base model. Definitely more expensive than apps and a charger, though
Yea, I know I am moving fast, but I am excited....and bored at work. I looked at the campsites more and I think I can get away with spending approx $60 in equipment to give it a try. *This doesn't include the boots because I am getting them regardless of camping)
Here's a list of the amenities and the other one is similar in that it has fresh water, fire pits, and grill
[LIST]
[*]Site Type: Campsite Non-Electric
[*]Site Reserve Type: Site-Specific
[*]Checkin Time: 4:00 pm
[*]Checkout Time: 3:00 pm
[*]Type of Use: Overnight
[*]Min Num of People: 1
[*]Max Num of People: 6
[*]Pets Allowed: Y
[*]Min Num of Vehicles: 1
[*]Max Num of Vehicles: 2
[*]Driveway Grade: Moderate
[*]Driveway Length: 20
[*]Max Vehicle Length: 20
[*]Shade: Partial
[*]Tent Pad Length: 14
[*]Tent Pad Width: 14
[*]Capacity/Size Rating: Single
[*]Tent Pad: Y
[*]Campfire Allowed: Y
[*]Fire Pit: Y
[*]Grills: Y
[*]Looking For Category: Tent Site
[*]Picnic Table: Y
[*]Quiet Area: Y
[*]Distance to Body of Water: 6864
[*]Driveway Width: 15
[*]Parking Lot Surface: Gravel
[*]Proximity to Drinking Water: 105
[*]Site Access: Drive-In
[*]Site Surface: Gravel
[*]Tent Only: Y
[/LIST]
I found some items on the cheaper side on Amazon
Charger (Per lumberjim's suggestion)
Sleeping Bag (Since both sites are drive up, I can pack extra blankets for "just in case")
Sleeping Pad
Tent (On back order, but the assumption is that it will be here soonish - couple months. If not, I'll look some more. I am assuming it is so cheap cause it's ugly.)
I won't need a stove because there's a grill. I don't need dishes because I'll have a car. I don't need water purifier because there's potable water onsite. I think with these, I can comfortably go in the Spring instead of waiting all year. Plus, since they are both drive up, if I need anything, I can go out and get it.
Thoughts?
Looks to me like a reasonable starting point. I echo the remark that it is Very Edumacational taking a sly look at everyone else’s rig out at a site.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Yes. Sly is important. You aren't gawking.
That pad looks pretty bad. So does the sleeping bag. I would skip the sleeping bag, use blankets instead for free from home, and take the money you save from the sleeping bag and buy a Thermarest solid foam pad like
this one.
A sleeping bag should have a temperature rating to give you an idea of what it can do for you. This one does not. You have no idea how warm it will be.
The tent looks OK and the charger too, especially if LJ has used it and vouches for it. Although having the crank gives it a little more weight if you ever plan to backpack.
I've not used it, but I gave one to Spencer last year and it worked for him.
@glatt - I thought the bag did have a temp rating - good catch. Thanks! I was also looking at
these two. Wouldn't a blanket let in a breeze? Or expose me to buggies? Maybe I can hold it together using binder clips for the time being.
@lumberjim - it's not expensive. I can give it a shot.
I also realize I forgot a damn lantern!!
Maybe
this one? Or
this one?
The sleeping bag labeled "
these" is interesting because its Item Weight is 4.9 lbs. while its Shipping Weight is only 4.45 lbs. Must have some helium in the insulation that seeps out over time. I hope you don't wind up talking funny when you get up in the mornings.
Also, a possibly stupid question - how do you change clothes??
Wouldn't a blanket let in a breeze? Or expose me to buggies? Maybe I can hold it together using binder clips for the time being.
There isn't much of a breeze in a tent. I have a sleeping bag and I usually unzip it and use it as a blanket unless it's really cold. And a trendy thing in backpacking these days is to get a quilt instead of a sleeping bag. Lighter, compresses more, and with a pad underneath it keeps you warm. The reason I suggested blankets to you is that you already own them. Save some money until you figure things out.
If you have your heart set on getting a sleeping bag, that Coleman Palmetto you linked to looks like the best one you have posted.
There isn't much of a breeze in a tent. I have a sleeping bag and I usually unzip it and use it as a blanket unless it's really cold. And a trendy thing in backpacking these days is to get a quilt instead of a sleeping bag. Lighter, compresses more, and with a pad underneath it keeps you warm. The reason I suggested blankets to you is that you already own them. Save some money until you figure things out.
If you have your heart set on getting a sleeping bag, that Coleman Palmetto you linked to looks like the best one you have posted.
I can do just a blanket for now. My first reservation is in April, so I don't need to worry about it being too cold. It's in the 40s and 50s at night then. Do you usually take pillows with you?
Car camping I absolutely take full size pillows off my bed at home. Backpacking, I have a small camping pillow that is really too big for that. I'm thinking of using just a stuff sack and putting my lightweight down jacket loosely in it to use as a pillow. Often you will have a fluffy fleece jacket or something like that you can use. Or splurge for an inflatable pillow. I haven't done that.
Cool. Thanks! What about the lanterns above? Any strong opinions? I am more included to the more expensive one because it is supposed to be all weather.
they both look tiny. 5"? it'll light your tent up, but not a campsite, I think.
The downside to lanterns is that they shoot light in all directions, including into your eyes, slightly blinding you. Do you have a flashlight? If you already have a flashlight, you don't need a lantern. Lanterns can be nice though, especially when they are somewhat directional and you can aim them where you want. I have a solar powered one that can be hung from a cord or a nail or something, and aim downward onto a table. It's pretty nice, but more expensive. Also, headlamps are very popular with solo backpackers, and for good reason. The light shines where you are looking, and you can keep your hands free. I don't care for headlamps in a Boy Scout camping trip because when you say something, all the boys look at you and you get a dozen lights shining in your eyes.
I have this lantern. It's not super bright, but lights up a tent or your table.
But looking for my lantern on Amazon,
I came across these that look like they might be pretty good. They are bright and aim down so you aren't blinded. You can charge them at home or put them in the sun to charge. Supposedly they are also a power brick for you phone, but I bet that's BS. Phones need a lot of power.
The downside to lanterns is that they shoot light in all directions, including into your eyes, slightly blinding you.
You ain't learned the aluminum foil trick yet?! Foil half the Coleman lantern, bam!, directional, non-blinding lantern.
And you call yourself a Boy Scout...:eyebrow::p:
Smrt
I have a plastic LED lamp that is shaped like a flying saucer. Lights in a ring on the bottom edge, hole in the center. Great for a tent. Or my basement steps.
Eta,
This
https://goo.gl/images/rkH322I have a headlamp and a flashlight. I suppose I can hold off for now. The places I am going first have fire pits that I definitely plan to use. That could be enough for now. The total is still a little over 60 bucks. I think that's reasonable to start with.
Ok, so I'll buy:
- Tent
- Pad
- Crank charger
I still have to get:
- Boots (This month)
- Food (Closer to trip)
- Wood (On site)
- Biodegradable toilet paper
I have:
- Cookware
- Eating stuff
- Blanket
- Pillows
- Flashlight, headlamp
- Camping/Hiking clothes
- Shower stuff
- Bathroom stuff
- Camping chair
- Normal Hiking stuff
- Mini knife
What am I missing? Keeping in mind they're both drive up camping sites with potable water and bathroom facilities.
About 25 ft. of nylon cord to string up as a clothesline to dry a washcloth and towel. String it doubled over and you can drape the items between them without clothespins. It can replace broken tent lines, provide additional tie downs if it gets windy, suspend the tent if a pole fails, tie food up out of reach of animals ... etc.
About 25 ft. of nylon cord to string up as a clothesline to dry a washcloth and towel. String it doubled over and you can drape the items between them without clothespins. It can replace broken tent lines, provide additional tie downs if it gets windy, suspend the tent if a pole fails, tie food up out of reach of animals ... etc.
Yes - I forgot about that. Added to the list.
I also think I am still going to buy a stove. Nothing too fancy, just for boiling water for when I don't want to make an entire fire too cook
I also think I am still going to buy a stove. Nothing too fancy, just for boiling water for when I don't want to make an entire fire too cook
http://a.co/6ZJ519U
You will be hard pressed to find a cheaper stove and this is a great choice for an individual person doing backpacking.
I don't have one personally because I always camp in groups and need a bigger stove, but if you are just boiling water in a small pot for one person, the stove linked above is a great choice.
http://a.co/6ZJ519U
You will be hard pressed to find a cheaper stove and this is a great choice for an individual person doing backpacking.
I don't have one personally because I always camp in groups and need a bigger stove, but if you are just boiling water in a small pot for one person, the stove linked above is a great choice.
Sounds good! If I keep it up with car camping, I might look into a portable gas stove or something, but for now, I think this will be sufficient.
I think the only things I am buying that are camping specific are the tent and sleeping pad. Anything else, I can use regardless of my future in camps.
Now, I just have to wait LOL!
Now, I just have to wait LOL!
The wai-ai-ting is the hardest part. Tom Petty said so.
The wai-ai-ting is the hardest part. Tom Petty said so.
Luckily, I only have to wait until April. I booked my first site for then. It gives me time to practice food and maybe even check out the site before I get there.
...Also, dried meals are disgusting and enough to put you off camping for life. ...
There are some really good ones out there. Availability is quite limited; also, you have to know what to look for. They come as entrees only (no side dishes, desserts, snacks, condiments; or, accessories); but, are satisfying and high enough in both protein and calories to constitute a full meal that sustains an active person. They're compactly packaged like a brick and reconstituted in their own packaging. Add hot water and in 10 minutes you have a hot meal (20 minutes with cold water). They are also exorbitantly expensive: with shipping charges they end up costing about $12.50 apiece (sorry for the let down). Just an FYI even though it's not for the typical camper.
I'm a big fan of Mountain House Chili Mac but yeah, stupid expensive.
$5.69 from Amazon for a tasty hot meal after running up and down mountains doesn't sound that expensive. :confused:
hmm... maybe I was mistaken on the cost.
I think the biggest problem with dehydrated meals for me is finding single-servings. The two serving would mean eating the same thing for two meals, so I would have to get some that I would be ok eating for both lunch and dinner.
You should investigate how big they consider a "serving" to be. A vending-machine package of chips is two servings.
The Chili Mac pouch says, "Two and a Half 1-Cup Servings". That's not too much after a serious day in the fresh air and sunshine. Don't forget sharing with Bambi and Thumper. ;)
I'm a big fan of Mountain House Chili Mac but yeah, stupid expensive.
Mountain House produces another line that they don't advertise. It's not the $5.69 stuff that xoB found on Amazon. One of those selections is called Rice and Chicken. In the other line it's called Chicken and Rice (the main ingredient being listed first for both). The other line is the good stuff, the stupid expensive stuff, that most don't know about.
Got my first package of camping stuff! The stove! Now I just have to find fuel (I didn't read the description closely enough). And I bought a thermal food jar. Even if I don't keep camping, the idea of opening a jar of hot food on top of a big rock in the wind is REALLY appealing.
Tent is on it's way (and apparently 43 dollars now!!) with the sleeping pad. The charger will be delivered some time in January.
@Happy_Monkey - I actually do look at that and the calories. Even if it's a small serving size, if it's packed with calories for regular backpackers/thru-hikers, then it is probably too much for me since I am just doing day hiking with a base camp.
About 25 ft. of nylon cord to string up as a clothesline to dry a washcloth and towel. String it doubled over and you can drape the items between them without clothespins. It can replace broken tent lines, provide additional tie downs if it gets windy, suspend the tent if a pole fails, tie food up out of reach of animals ... etc.
What a clever idea. Doubling the clothes line. Personally I would get an all season sleeping bag like the US Army uses. I took one on many a motorcycle camping trip.
Just get a stick and rake leaves or pine needles over the tent space and then the whole floor of the tent will be padded.
If you spend much time on the trail then you will soon develop the habit of going to bed at dusk and waking at dawn. A small led flashlight will suffice.
What a clever idea. Doubling the clothes line. Personally I would get an all season sleeping bag like the US Army uses. I took one on many a motorcycle camping trip.
That was post #1,000,000, by the Cellar's count:
http://cellar.org/showpost.php?p=1000000One year free membership! Ah shit, make it lifetime free membership.
The good news is that I can put up the tent.
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I still don't know what these are for, though.
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Looks like an optional tie off point to pull the fly away from the tent wall. And the bottom grey thing might be a ground cloth to go between the tent floor and dirt. Is it the same size as the floor?
Looks like an optional tie off point to pull the fly away from the tent wall. And the bottom grey thing might be a ground cloth to go between the tent floor and dirt. Is it the same size as the floor?
That eould explain the extra anchor things. And no. It's not even a quarter of the size of the floor. There are fabric hooks on each of the short sides
Could be a door awning that attaches to the tent or frame.
The ties on the side of the tent are for pulling? the side of the roof away from the tent wall. Much like the eaves on some houses. Keeps the water coming down the roof line from running down the sides of the tent. Don't forget to dig a drip line around the tent.
Buy looong tent pegs. Short ones tend to pull out during monsoons. Do you like Fritos? Put some under your tinder for a fire and you can have a blaze with one match. Speaking of such I like wood kitchen matches, but don't buy the strike anywhere type. You don't want your pack catching on fire.
Fabric hooks? It might be a gear loft or shelf that goes inside the tent at the top.
The ties on the side of the tent are for pulling? the side of the roof away from the tent wall. Much like the eaves on some houses. Keeps the water coming down the roof line from running down the sides of the tent. Don't forget to dig a drip line around the tent.
Buy looong tent pegs. Short ones tend to pull out during monsoons. Do you like Fritos? Put some under your tinder for a fire and you can have a blaze with one match. Speaking of such I like wood kitchen matches, but don't buy the strike anywhere type. You don't want your pack catching on fire.
The space between the fly and the tent also keeps the condensation which collects under the fly from getting in the tent.
Sad news to report: The conditions in the ADKs were not suitable for camping this NYEve, so we stayed home.
Fabric hooks? It might be a gear loft or shelf that goes inside the tent at the top.
Yep. Fabric hooks. I didn't see anywhere to attach it. I got the idea as I was taking it down that it might be something stupid like a wrap for the tent during storage. Ah well, it's so small that it doesn't hurt to take it with me
I don't think I told you all. My car died recently (not the good part), but my brother decided that I would take his car. It's a Nissan Rogue - much better suited for camping IMHO.
I am really looking forward to my first trip in April
The ties on the side of the tent are for pulling? the side of the roof away from the tent wall. Much like the eaves on some houses. Keeps the water coming down the roof line from running down the sides of the tent. Don't forget to dig a drip line around the tent.
Buy looong tent pegs. Short ones tend to pull out during monsoons. Do you like Fritos? Put some under your tinder for a fire and you can have a blaze with one match. Speaking of such I like wood kitchen matches, but don't buy the strike anywhere type. You don't want your pack catching on fire.
Fritos as tinder? Will wonders never cease!
As for matches, how about one of these little doohickies?
My grandfather had one and he seemed to like it.
The fun thing about camping gear is that there are so many ways to skin a cat.
One of those match storage things is good. I have a similar one somewhere, made of plastic. But in practice, I just have a few random small boxes of matches packed with my stove in a ziplock sandwich baggie. There might be a lighter in there too.
Our boy scout troop carries a small Christmas cookie tin that is full of boxes of matches when we camp. The boys go through kitchen matches like you wouldn't believe. I think they just like playing with matches on the camping trips.
For fire, I was just going to use something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/BIC-Multi-purpose-Lighter-2-Pack/dp/B006SM2G1U/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1514911206&sr=8-3
Right now, I'm going to store all of my stuff in a plastic tub that I can just haul out when I go.
Remember, I'll have a car for now. If I start backpacking, then I'll get the little matches.
I'm buying Amazon stock. ;)
snip--
I still don't know what these are for, though.
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Unless I miss my guess, that's the bag to carry the tent in when disassembled and folded neatly and rolled/wrapped around the tent poles.
For fire, I was just going to use something like this: https://www.amazon.com/BIC-Multi-purpose-Lighter-2-Pack/dp/B006SM2G1U/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1514911206&sr=8-3 ...
Butane lighters are fine for warm weather. IIRC, butane liquefies at 45° F. The liquid butane in the lighter won't vaporize so it can ignite if it gets down to that temperature. If you get an unseasonal cold spell, keep the lighter in your clothing near your body so the butane stays warmer.
Zippo type lighters that use lighter fluid (naphtha) will work at lower temperatures than butane lighters, as will matches.
I'm late to chime in, but I'll offer a few things I have learned. I keep a small fire kit in my day bag. It consists of a Bic lighter, a small ferro, damp light match pack, twine for tinder, and Wetfire fire starters. 99% of the time all you will need is a lighter, but it is nice to have other options. I keep a larger kit with more options in my ruck.
There's still a 30 something year old white phosphorus grenade in my ruck originally put there to destroy the gear should it have to be left behind. Someday I'll have to toss it into a campfire.
I use a GPS program on my phone called OnXMaps. In addition to the standard layers, you can identify public land, private land boundaries with owner names, access points, timber cuts, wildfire data, nautical charts, river stage forecasts, trail slopes and trail mileage, USFS roads, recreation sites, etc..... I think you get the idea. I lay in my routes and build products on my PC, then access it on my cellphone.
Forgot to mention it is simple to drop waypoints, measure your progress, and has an accurate electronic compass.
There's still a 30 something year old white phosphorus grenade in my ruck originally put there to destroy the gear should it have to be left behind. Someday I'll have to toss it into a campfire.
I had M14 grenades (Thermite) to use for sensitive item/document destruction. Stack the laptops and then....
This is my main fire kit that goes in my ruck. Truth be told, it is never used because my small kit always fits the bill.
ferro rod
magnesium bar
lighter
small light
match safe
flashlight
Wetfire - this works great!!
dryer lint - I keep this in a plastic bag. If conditions are truly shit hit the fan, I can mix some of my vaseline (first aid kit) with some of the lint
I have these 3 fire starters along with other items in my E&E bandoleer and duplicates in the ruck:
A standard 3" Bic disposable butane lighter which suffices in most situations.
A 2¾" (more compact than it looks in the picture) refillable, wind resistant,
butane lighter that offers a good grip and robust ignition button that's user friendly even with gloves on. It's good for more difficult fire starting.
You can get the less in demand
clear version for a song.
A tough, sealed,
naphtha fluid lighter the uses standard Zippo flints and wicks. It'll work at lower temperatures than the butane lighters and will work as a hands free candle for a short time. I actually have the
black version; but, those seem to be sold out on Amazon (though it may still be available
elsewhere)
But wood matches are better for biting when they have to saw your leg off. :haha:
Yeah but the metal parts of a lighter can get hot enough to cauterize blood vessels so you don't bleed to death.
Six of one, half dozen of the other I suppose.
I have these 3 fire starters along with other items in my E&E bandoleer and duplicates in the ruck:
A standard 3" Bic disposable butane lighter which suffices in most situations.
A 2¾" (more compact than it looks in the picture) refillable, wind resistant, butane lighter that offers a good grip and robust ignition button that's user friendly even with gloves on. It's good for more difficult fire starting.
You can get the less in demand clear version for a song.
A tough, sealed, naphtha fluid lighter the uses standard Zippo flints and wicks. It'll work at lower temperatures than the butane lighters and will work as a hands free candle for a short time. I actually have the black version; but, those seem to be sold out on Amazon (though it may still be available elsewhere)
I have a quad flame torch lighter, but I'm bad about forgetting to refill it so it ends up sitting on my table. I'll post a photo of it when I get back in town. It is one of those that made troops go "oooh & aaah". lol
Those watertight fluid lighters look nice and are definitely something I will look at. Years ago, I used to carry a Zippo in my pocket and I would sometimes get the Zippo leg burn, so those lighters ended up on a shelf and gifts to others.
Get a [strike]room[/strike] tent, you two.
ftfy
Oh I think they are already sporting a couple tents...
fuck it. you try to make a positive contribution and you start getting trolled.
If you don't know the difference between being trolled and good natured kidding, you're in for a bad time.
fuck it. you try to make a positive contribution and you start getting trolled.
your first post was a positive contribution. the next 3 or 4 were you and sexo comparing penis size.
boom.
I didn't get that impression. More like shooting the shit between two generations of GIs.
Ok, so I am now in possession of the following:
- Stove
- Fuel source for stove
- Silverware (2 sets)
- Tent
- Sleeping pad
- Pot for stove
- Hydro flask food jar
- Reusable 24-48 hour ice packs
Since I am going to be hitting all of NC's 40 national parks in the next 365 days, I will have the opportunity to do car camping and also hike in camping. I am currently experimenting with foods. I have A LOT more experimenting to do, though.
- Bear creek soups rehydrate well with boiling water. I just have to be patient. I should be able to combine them with canned meat and have a filling meal. I am thinking of getting some freeze dried meat, though, since that will be lighter.
- I still hate oatmeal
Sound like you're having fun with this.
Do you like playing with the stove? Is it working well for you?
Sound like you're having fun with this.
Do you like playing with the stove? Is it working well for you?
I am having fun!
I haven't actually played with the stove just yet. I just got the fuel and the pot. I had hoped to use a pot I had, but the handle makes it tip over. I am going to try it soon, though. I have put it together, though. I think I'm a little nervous about lighting it.
I still have a list of things to get, but I am going to calm it down for now....maybe :o
No you're not, you're having fun so keep it going. Calming down is after it gets to be old hat. :D
Try the oatmeal! ;)
If you can figure out how to make it taste like a cookie, sure! :D
Play with the stove! ;)
FIRE! heh heh heh :cool:
Play with the stove! ;)
Play with the pot!
You Nasty^^^
And yes play with the stove. Cook a meal on it even if it's only Dinty Moore Beef Stew a perennial camping favorite.
Sweeten the oatmeal with maple syrup.
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Play with the stove! ;)
I wholeheartedly agree!
Learn to do this:
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Then also learn how to not do it.
Bear creek soups rehydrate well with boiling water. I just have to be patient. I should be able to combine them with canned meat and have a filling meal. I am thinking of getting some freeze dried meat, though, since that will be lighter.
Have you considered this?
Very versatile, high protein, lean, lightweight, and quite tasty. Pop it into a sandwich baggie for camping and it will stay good for as long as you need it to. Fair warning, though, it is quite salty - rinse in water to wash away some of the extra salt before using.
:thumbsup:
Which stove did you get, bbro? I like my
biolite stove a lot because it uses twigs, burns really hot and recharges my ipod or whatever uses USB chargers.
@Glinda - I'm not sure the dried beef is what I am looking for. It might be good on the trail for a snack, but I don't think it's good for mixing in with cous cous and soup or something similar. That's what I was thinking for with the dehydrated meat
@Pamela - I got
this stove and
this fuel source
Also, good news, I've apparently made some friends and I won't be on my own during my first hiking trip. They're going to come with me!! :D
Also, I am thinking of getting a hammock and a hammock stand. It seems like it would be comfortable.
Get one of those hammock stands with the hand crank that lets you adjust the elevation of the head end so you can use it as a recliner.
Also, good news, I've apparently made some friends and I won't be on my own during my first hiking trip. They're going to come with me!! :D
Nice!
Good news on the friends.
A hammock stand sounds like a lot of extra weight and bulk to be carrying around when you can just use trees.
Also, good news, I've apparently made some friends and I won't be on my own during my first hiking trip. They're going to come with me!! :D
Good, much cheaper than hiring native porters. Nothing better than new friends who are willing to sleep with you in the woods. :blush:
Good news on the friends.
A hammock stand sounds like a lot of extra weight and bulk to be carrying around when you can just use trees.
I wouldn't be carrying it around. As long as it fits in the car, I'm good I can't use trees in the sites I've reserved and at most sites I've looked at.
Ugh - I mean camping trip, not hiking. I'm going camping with them. I've been hiking before. Stupid.
If you're car camping, a lot of that gear could be replaced with a bouncy castle. ;)
If you're car camping, a lot of that gear could be replaced with a bouncy castle. ;)
.......:mg::evil3:
If you went camping, and woke up with your pants down and Vaseline on your bum, would you tell anyone?
I woke up tied to a stump and my ass was sticky!
If you went camping, and woke up with your pants down and Vaseline on your bum, would you tell anyone?
That would be embarrassing, having gotten the field expedient treatment for constipation after eating too much trail mix and not drinking enough water.
So no?
Wanna go camping?
Thanks
There you go, being campy.
I've got all my camping trips planned for the year. Most are 3 days and 2 nights. There is one that is 4 days 3 nights, but I am staying in an airbnb 10 minutes away from the park.
There are a couple hike in sites and mostly drive in sites. I've emailed the parks about bringing a hammock on stands as long as I keep them on the tent pad for the drive in sites.
I have an intro to camping class coming up in a couple weeks. I'm also taking a stove and water filter class, and a AT food class.
I'm getting excited!
Just remember you don't have to be an expert right out of the gate, a lot of people are still bumbling along at the third turn. Knowing enough not to get hurt is sufficient. ;)
Just remember you don't have to be an expert right out of the gate, a lot of people are still bumbling along at the third turn. Knowing enough not to get hurt is sufficient. ;)
That's why I am not going to the back country :D
I know how to survive hiking, so that's good - lol. The good thing is that there is a definite check out time, so I am assuming that if you don't check out, they know something went sour. I am also planning on telling them that, too, in case it isn't assumed.
You'll be fine. It will be fun.
Here's a tip I don't know if I mentioned before. Ear plugs. I have trouble sleeping when mice or squirrels are scurrying around in the woods. You hear a rustle and lie there trying to figure out what it is. I sleep much better when I don't hear that squirrel 100 feet away. Or even rain. Rain is so freaking loud in a tent.
You'll be fine. It will be fun.
Here's a tip I don't know if I mentioned before. Ear plugs. I have trouble sleeping when mice or squirrels are scurrying around in the woods. You hear a rustle and lie there trying to figure out what it is. I sleep much better when I don't hear that squirrel 100 feet away. Or even rain. Rain is so freaking loud in a tent.
Good idea! I'll add it to my big old container of "camping schtuff"
But then you won't hear the swamp monster or bigfoot sneaking up on you. :lol2:
You'll be fine. It will be fun.
Here's a tip I don't know if I mentioned before. Ear plugs. I have trouble sleeping when mice or squirrels are scurrying around in the woods. You hear a rustle and lie there trying to figure out what it is. I sleep much better when I don't hear that squirrel 100 feet away. Or even rain. Rain is so freaking loud in a tent.
It wasn't a squrl.
In case you forget matches. :rolleyes:
In case you forget matches. :rolleyes:
In theory, that could work. Looks really awkward. How do you hold everything steady while positioning yourself for a kick start?
Ha! I don't think so! I've forgotten to update in a while!
I bought another stove - a bigger one that will fit a small pot and pan on it. The other one will only fit the tiny camp pots on it.
I broke down and bought a sleeping bag. It was on sale, so that's my reasoning.
I bought a plethora of bug repellent stuff.
I also got some cheapo towels.
I got a not so cheapo cooler
I still need: tarp, rope, fire starter option, and that may be it. I have a list somewhere.
Running around getting your shit together... but it's worth it.
1.5 days. In 1.5 days, I will be experiencing my first camping night. I met up with one of the friends I am going with to plan out the food. She's not a big planner, but I am :) Friday is dinner before arriving and snacks after. Saturday is all three meals (they're doing breakfast, I am doing lunch and dinner). Sunday is just breakfast. Check out is 3pm, so I might hang out a bit, but they'll probably leave after breakfast.
I will be taking lots of pictures, I'm sure. I'll post them on my pic thread, probably.
They are experienced campers, so it will be good to see how to do things. Plus, they're going to teach me how to make a fire. :D
first camping trip on 4/20. blaze it.
No, thank you. I don't smoke. Also, it's illegal in this state.
It's funny. You keep hearing about it being legal here and there, but you get the electric chair of you do it in Virginia
legal has nothing to do with it. anyway, I was talking about trail blazing. m'yeah
I survived! Mostly!
I started a fire on my own!! I cooked over a fire (badly). I slept on the ground (badly). I put up a tent and took it down(wonderfully). I have a standard kitchen box, now. I have a container with all the main stuff (minus the tent that doesn't fit into anything).
Things of note
The camping buddy
Love her to death, but she's high maintenance and very unprepared. She moves a lot slower than I do, so it was really frustrating watching her take 20-30 minutes to set up a fire before even lighting it. And she had to be the one in control of the fire. Constantly moving the logs. There was very little hiking done because she was so sore from sleeping.
BUT she had no supplies. If she knew she needed to sleep on something, why not bring it? If I hadn't brought all the stuff in my kitchen box, I don't know how she would've prepared breakfast or even eaten the food prepared. She ended up going to the store the second day to get food for breakfast today. Really???
That's when she went and got a dog (??) bed to sleep on last night.
I don't know how, but we barely ate (in my view), so all the food I brought kind of was a waste to buy. I have to eat it all myself and if I'dve known that, I wouldn'tve bought most of it.
I think she can stay a hiking buddy, but I think we're too different for camping buddies. I am hugely grateful to her for accompanying me, so I kept my mouth shut and let her putter. I was so fucking hungry though!!
Sleeping arrangements
I was in pain the whole time. I am a side sleeper and didn't even think of that when buying sleeping pads. What I have is ridiculously insufficient. I think I've found a thicker one to try. The sleeping bag was not bad. A mummy bag is weird, though. Only my nose was cold on the first night. I know the sleeping pad helped with that because in my tossing and turning, one leg was off the pad and one on. The temp difference was insane!
I found a 4 inch sleeping pad that is inflatable I may try. I want a hammock, so I may just go ahead and buy that, too. I thought I couldn't use them in the parks, but lots of people were. Apparently, that doesn't fall in the category of "don't damage the trees"
Food
If I go alone again, I think I'll need a cast iron pan to make the eggs in for breakfast. Or, I'll just make some breakfast burritos to reheat. I did enjoy having the fire as we were waking up, though, so cooking breakfast every day is good with me. I plan on doing a shit load more hiking than 5 total miles on my other camps, so I need something to eat that I can either take with me or eat back at camp. I could cook this at the same time as breakfast and take it with me. Or, if I come back to camp have something I can cook over my stove
Dinner is much better over the fire. I need to learn how to cook over a fire better. The chicken I made was ok, but it wasn't cooking right on the skewers. I think I was impatient and didn't wait for the right cooking fire before putting them on. I think I'll use the hobo packet cooking style more often for just me.
The cooler I bought worked GREAT! It didn't get below 55 degrees from Friday late afternoon until I unpacked it today around noon. I am happy I made the purchase
I was sadly lacking on the liquid part of the food. I think I assumed the camping buddy would have their own stuff, but they didn't. I brought 2 nalgenes for water. Luckily, there was fresh water, we just had to fill up a lot. I don't think that would have lasted just me very long, though. I almost brought tea bags, but I put them back when they didn't fit into a container. That would've been good, too. The lady at the campground next to us had big container for water that had a spigot on it. I want that.
Miscellaneous
Definitely need a dirty laundry bag
Want a water container
Want hand brush for wiping off the tent and tarps as I am packing
Need to hang a rope line next time
Need lantern
Want a regular phone charger
Want a sleep mask
Want a hatchet in case we can gather fire wood
Other than that, I think my first trip went pretty well. I over packed only slightly. We used almost all of the kitchen items. I had some extra clothes and food. There were just some things that made life easier, too. Like paper bags for fire, handkerchiefs for anything, a small basin to carry dirty dishes to/from the utility sinks, gloves for prepping meat so we didn't have to worry about washing hands. I didn't shower the whole time even though there was a quick trip back to the apt. It wasn't as gross as I thought, but not a pretty sight :D
Also, I found the settings on my camera that made for AWESOME fire photos. I'm posting those over on my pic thread. I'll update here with pics of the campsite.
I need a nap...now
You got some great experience!
You got some great experience!
I think so! It was good to be so close to home, too. That way, I could come get a comforter I thought would help with the sleeping situation. It did, but not enough. That's why I wanted to start so close to home, honestly
Sounds like an excellent learning experience and nobody froze to death, bonus!
You’ve learnt such a lot in just one wee trip! Sounds like you’re going to have a lot of fun with this!
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How exciting!
I'm thrilled to hear your update. Congratulations, seriously, congratulations.
You glossed over the one thing you have that's *crucial* for a successful trip - - a good attitude.
Seriously. I know lost of people who are fully capable outside the city, and their misery is freaking contagious. Skills can be acquired and improved, gear can be bought, made, improvised...
Being out there... Getting the hell up off yer butt and GOING, that's a big key to your success.
I'm a side sleeper too, and never got relaxed enough to be rested sleeping in a hammock. Your mileage may vary.
Sounds like an excellent learning experience and nobody froze to death, bonus!
Total bonus :D Although, I think I need to research fire safety items on account of the bacon grease fire. It was contained, though :D
You’ve learnt such a lot in just one wee trip! Sounds like you’re going to have a lot of fun with this!
I hope it'll be fun! I have 8 more trips to go - lol! I'm sure I'll learn even more at my first solo one in a couple weeks
How exciting!
I'm thrilled to hear your update. Congratulations, seriously, congratulations.
You glossed over the one thing you have that's *crucial* for a successful trip - - a good attitude.
Seriously. I know lost of people who are fully capable outside the city, and their misery is freaking contagious. Skills can be acquired and improved, gear can be bought, made, improvised...
Being out there... Getting the hell up off yer butt and GOING, that's a big key to your success.
Thanks! I agree about the attitude. I could've complained the whole time about being sore or the pace of my camping buddy, but I held my tongue and let it go. It's a lot easier in the woods. I don't think even a year or two ago I would have been able to do that. I never thought I'd be someone willing to go into the woods for a few days, but I'm enjoying it. I'll have to see if I like it when the bugs start eating me :eek:
I'm a side sleeper too, and never got relaxed enough to be rested sleeping in a hammock. Your mileage may vary.
I'm hoping I will be able to sleep on my back, then. I don't have enough cushioning on the ground to sleep on my back. My butt is too big :D I ordered from REI, so if it doesn't work out, I can take it back for a full refund up to a year after purchase date.
Some wise words I heard from a mate at the boy scout Seabase high adventure program was that the only difference between an ordeal and an adventure is one's attitude.
It makes all the difference.
Pictures!!
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Playing games
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Bad shot of the moon - it's supposed to be a crescent moon. I need to work on my night shots
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Zoom lens into the middle of the fire
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Some more fire porn. Staring into the embers
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Afternoon laziness view
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All the food
Eggs on the fire | Eggs done with potato packets | I MADE FIRE!!
Chicken prep station | Chicken cooking | Done chicken
Not Done chicken | Gucamole | Bacon skewers
Back up bacon attempt | Beef skewers to make use of the fire | Breakfast of bacon, eggs, and leftover potato packets
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Man, you made real food. Good stuff. I love it when other people make bacon and eggs when I am camping. I'm lazy and just boil water and pour it over instant oatmeal, or maybe have an untoasted bagel, or something easy like that with no cleanup.
Man, you made real food. Good stuff. I love it when other people make bacon and eggs when I am camping. I'm lazy and just boil water and pour it over instant oatmeal, or maybe have an untoasted bagel, or something easy like that with no cleanup.
Heck yea! With my fancy shmancy cooler, there's no problem with that. The clean up was a little of a pain, but we had utility sinks, so we didn't have to store dirty dishes. I am thinking of different ways of having a tasty breakfast. Like breakfast burritos made before the trip to be reheated. Or even hobo packets with potatoes, sausage, and eggs. Nothing to do at the site and easy cleanup.
*Also, I am the green tent and the privacy shelter is mine, too. All the green is purely coincidental :D
Privacy shelter?
Somewhere to change so I don't have to roll around in my tent and get my pants on backwards. Happened this time. It can be used for shower/toilet, but it won't be for me.
A dressing room!
Probably should set up another to undress.
bbro, I have two words for you and your buddy.
Camp cots.
You will thank me.
But your sherpa will likely have a different opinion...
bbro, I have two words for you and your buddy. Camp cots.
You will thank me.
We have those*. Great ...but not really for backpacking.
*exactly those, because I clicked on the link and it asked me if I wanted to buy them again :lol:
Some wise words I heard from a mate at the boy scout Seabase high adventure program was that the only difference between an ordeal and an adventure is one's attitude.
It makes all the difference.
subscibed
Bro you had all the sleeping comfort behind your tents. All those trees behind you with their leaves on the ground. Use a stick to take the leaves to your tent platform.
I am a side sleeper too. A hammock works if you can find 2 trees that are the right distance apart. Go to Army surplus and buy a tent hammock. Good buy. Helps a lot to be a back sleeper.
A hatchet is a useless article unless you want to look like Daniel Boone. Green wood makes terrible tender and worse firewood. Go to an area away from the campers and you will likely find plenty of dry wood on the ground.
Throw salt on a grease fire. Grumpiness is not allowed while camping except in the morning. You did good. You saw what you need and what you didn't. Feels good to start a campfire and everyone emerges to enjoy the warmth.
I never could get a decent pic of the moon without zoom on a camera.
Captain, most state and all national parks, have rules about gathering wood.
@Pamela/monster - I was thinking about a cot if the pad didn't work out. It is SO comfy though and will be better for the hike in sites.
@captainhook - the hatchet is for fallen wood, not chopping down trees. That is definitely not allowed in the parks. And sorry, not putting leaves and stuff inside my tent. I'm trying not to get bit by bugs. Thanks for the tip about the salt. I may bring a bigger container of salt.
Most parks have rules about fallen wood too, be sure and check.
Most parks have rules about fallen wood too, be sure and check.
I'm pretty sure most are OK with you burning anything that's "dead, down and on the ground"
...they don't like you bringing it in though
I'm pretty sure most are OK with you burning anything that's "dead, down and on the ground"
...they don't like you bringing it in though
Actually, there are parks that gathering wood is prohibited. You can bring it in, but you can't take it back out. Some places require that you by it on-site. But, it varies with the park. I check before I go. I'm ok with buying wood at the park to avoid the hassle. It's an easy way to support the park, the way I look at it.
And sorry, not putting leaves and stuff inside my tent.
The leaves go
under the tent.:rtfm:
Actually, there are parks that gathering wood is prohibited. You can bring it in, but you can't take it back out. Some places require that you by it on-site. But, it varies with the park. I check before I go. I'm ok with buying wood at the park to avoid the hassle. It's an easy way to support the park, the way I look at it.
That's literally burning money. Which is ok, if you have money to burn.
That's literally burning money. Which is ok, if you have money to burn.
Unless you have a way to magically make wood appear if we aren't allowed to gather wood. And we aren't allowed to bring in outside wood, then that's the way it goes. I'm not special enough to think the rules don't apply to me. If $20 is going to break me, I shouldn't be buying any of this stuff.
You're miles ahead because to have the right attitude. You Go Girl!! :thumb2:
Actually, there are parks that gathering wood is prohibited. You can bring it in, but you can't take it back out. Some places require that you by it on-site. But, it varies with the park. I check before I go. I'm ok with buying wood at the park to avoid the hassle. It's an easy way to support the park, the way I look at it.
no Emerald Ash Borer where you are then, I guess
Like I said, all parks have their own rules and they change, so you have to check with the park you're in... better yet before you're in.
You're miles ahead because to have the right attitude. You Go Girl!! :thumb2:
:D
An example of bizarre fire rules is that Virginia has a statewide fire ban during daylight hours in spring. So you can go camping and have it be kind of cold, and collect some downed branches off the ground and have a nice fire at night. But if it's cold in the morning and you have a big pile of leftover wood, you can't start a fire to warm up a bit the next morning.
Army tents come in "shelter halves" which two man teams put two together to make the tent.
During a training exercise a looong time ago my tent partner put it up while I was doing some other task and covered the bottom (inside) with nice soft vegetation.
The next morning I discovered it was poison ivy, to which he seemed to be immune and I never have been. Gahh!
Unless you have a way to magically make wood appear if we aren't allowed to gather wood. And we aren't allowed to bring in outside wood, then that's the way it goes. I'm not special enough to think the rules don't apply to me. If $20 is going to break me, I shouldn't be buying any of this stuff.
I will not piss you off again.
I promise.
I'm sorry to have commented in a way that made you angry or upset. I did not intend this result. I don't know how I offended you with what I said, but I obviously did.
Won't happen again.
I will not piss you off again.
I promise.
I'm sorry to have commented in a way that made you angry or upset. I did not intend this result. I don't know how I offended you with what I said, but I obviously did.
Won't happen again.
You haven't offended or pissed me off. You're comment seemed a little snarky, though, so I responded in kind :) Maybe you didn't mean to be and I took it wrong. That would be my bad
get a room you two...
I wanna watch.:yum:
The next morning I discovered it was poison ivy, to which he seemed to be immune and I never have been. Gahh!
Mr. Clod is severely allergic to poison ivy--just a little touch on his hands, and it "goes systemic," which means his entire body breaks out and the inflammation takes 2-3 months to heal. I can't even imagine what would happen if he slept on a pile of it.
Part of the invasive insect issue is hauled firewood so it is a good idea to follow the local rules.
I missed a whole page of responses. Sorry for being re-dumb-dant.
The poison ivy incident was at Benning School for Boys in Georgia, where I think they have ivy as opposed to our nearly identical poison oak in the west.
I had a girlfriend who shared Mr. Clod's severe allergy to the nasty plant.
I still feel extremely chagrinned and remorseful almost fifty years later for telling her on a December hike through a leafless forest: "You can't catch it this time of year."
I had a reaction on my first Boy Scout campout; I woke up completely covered in rash.
No idea why; I grew up frequently exposed to Poison Ivy, and had occasional rashes just at the exposure area; it probably was some other allergen.
It wasn't super-uncomfortable, actually, but it looked terrible, and scared the Scoutmaster.
I got poison ivy second hand when I was young. The stupid people I lived with brought a basketball that had bounced into the evil weed into the family room. There it sat until I came in from playing, turned on the tv, and played with the ball on the floor. I broke out all over my fingers - I only touched it using the tips. In between the fingers was the worst. Painful as all get out. I had Miss Piggy and Kermit band aids.
I never had a problem with poison ivy until I did.
That's when I decided to teach myself what it looks like. Now I can spot it from a distance. In the daytime, anyway.
@Pamela/monster - I was thinking about a cot if the pad didn't work out. It is SO comfy though and will be better for the hike in sites.
@captainhook - the hatchet is for fallen wood, not chopping down trees. That is definitely not allowed in the parks. And sorry, not putting leaves and stuff inside my tent. I'm trying not to get bit by bugs. Thanks for the tip about the salt. I may bring a bigger container of salt.
The leaves don't go on the tent floor, but under the tent. A hatchet is good for pounding tent pegs in the ground or cutting off your fingers. Better to have a 7" filet knife hanging off your belt. You will use it more.
Just take a section of fallen wood in your hands like a baseball bat and wrap it on the nearest tree. Dry wood will break up. Green wood will remind you what it feels like to hit a 100 mph speed ball.
Another poison ivy story I just remembered: in college, they had a volunteer service day coordinated between a bunch of different organizations, and one of their tasks was clearing brush from some place. The next day, literally hundreds of students showed up in the health center all at once with poison ivy rashes.
So. I have another camping adventure coming up next weekend. It's with the hiking group (not sure if I mentioned before) that I joined, but left me behind again. I would cancel, but I've already paid and offered to help the person setting up. As of now, there is no information on the fire situation or anything. I am planning on treating it more like the hike in sites I have reserved later in the year. I want to see if there is any way that I can leave the cooler in the car and walk back and forth to get food or if I should depend on dehydrated/canned food.
What I have planned so far:
Breakfast
- Egg tacos wrapped in foil I can reheat on a small skillet on my camp stove
- Backup - Shelf stable cheese and sausage with bread or crackers
Lunch
- Sandwich and fruit - Only one lunch day. Could be while hiking
- Backup - Canned soup
Dinner - Assumption is there is at least one fire a day
- Hobo packet with chicken and veg
- Backup - Canned soup
Definitely taking my 5 gallon water jug. I need a smaller container for a limited kitchen box. Maybe just a box for now, but long term, it should be something else. Maybe I should make a bag or something easy to carry. I was initially thinking of using a duffel bag. Then, I could carry my food stuff, clothes, pillow, etc in one bag and hopefully make less trips. Experimentation is upon us.
Five gallons = c. five days.
Get a backpack, preferably on a frame.
Learn from the group.
So some more information on the other invite. There will be a catered dinner on Saturday. I'm still bringing some soup for back up. The rest will likely stay the same. I am also eating before I get there on Friday. The organizer is making vegetarian chili. I get the feeling it's going to be all beans and I hate all beans. Except for chickpeas when made into hummus.
@Diaphone Jim - better to have more than needed and not enough. I have a day pack with an internal frame. I don't need a true backpacker pack just yet. I doubt there is anything to learn from the group, but you are right, I will take it if it happens.
For car camping, 5 gallons seems like a great idea, especially if you already have the container.
For backpacking, have you ever tried to pick up a 5 gallon bucket of water? It's doable, but you will be glad to put it back down shortly.
For car camping, 5 gallons seems like a great idea, especially if you already have the container.
For backpacking, have you ever tried to pick up a 5 gallon bucket of water? It's doable, but you will be glad to put it back down shortly.
Remember - this is not true backpacking - I am only hiking in 125 ft to one site, 2200 ft to another, and one mile to another. A mile might be a little tougher, but if I only have to do it once, I believe it's doable - even if I have to make a separate trip for just that.
BUT, I'll be able to test it out this weekend. I can measure the distance from the car to the site I do have a container already. If it's too much, I can adjust how much I fill up the container. Water is definitely a different carry than a kettlebell, so I am sure it's not going to be as easy as I think
Well, the group just posted and said we can cancel and get a refund because it's going to be hot. Debating.....I wouldn't be hiking with them anyways. I don't know what to do now.
Nice thing about carrying water is that if halfway to the site you are regretting your decision, you can just dump some out.
Nice thing about carrying water is that if halfway to the site you are regretting your decision, you can just dump some out.
This is true :)
Well, I am NOT going camping this weekend. I don't want to be around those people, so I cancelled. I am thinking of adding one night of camping in July, though.
It will probably still be hot when I go camping in two weeks, so I may be sticking to the same type of food choices - not fire dependent.
You have to be careful making plans to go camping with other people because the word camping defines different scenarios for different people. To some it's a tent in the backyard with mom bringing snacks and to others it's jungle with native bearers. Planning has to be specific until you know your co-conspirators pretty well. ;)
You have to be careful making plans to go camping with other people because the word camping defines different scenarios for different people. To some it's a tent in the backyard with mom bringing snacks and to others it's jungle with native bearers. Planning has to be specific until you know your co-conspirators pretty well. ;)
Considering it's the same group that couldn't even wait for me hiking, I don't think it would be a good experience. It would be different if I was actually going hiking with them. I think I'll go for a waterfall hike instead. Much better
Water is heavy.
not if you take the dehydrated stuff
It is if you have to haul water to hydrate it.
That's always the catch with dehydrated water.
So, NEXT week is going to be my second camping trip. Since the temps have been in the 80s+ this week, I was contemplating getting a portable gas grill. I don't need a stand. Every where I'll take it has a picnic table. I want gas so it will be easier to cook for just me. I don't think I need a large cook space, though. I don't want a stove, I want fire. That way I can cook my wieners properly :right:
I was thinking of the Weber Q. Reviews say there's a problem connecting the tanks and with the regulator. It also only has one burner.
There's also a multitude of coleman grills. I haven't looked into these too much. I started getting overwhelmed
I be lost. HELP! :mecry:
An earlier version of
this is what we used all through my teenage camping years.
That was for car-camping though. If you're backpacking it, you want something else.
If you need more than one burner you're living to high on the hog.
An earlier version of this is what we used all through my teenage camping years.
That was for car-camping though. If you're backpacking it, you want something else.
Thanks for the suggestion, but that's a stove. I am looking for a portable grill. It will be for car camping.
If you need more than one burner you're living to high on the hog.
:P I mean that there is one tube for the whole grill, so one temp knob for the entire thing. No indirect cooking will be had. Not too sure if that matters, though.
One thing is I do want to use this at home, too. Since I live in an apartment, we aren't allowed to use grills on the porches. I could just move this to a picnic table and grill away for the summer.
We've had ours for ever, got it from Walmart, probably 15 years ago. It's awesome, easy, compact.... wasn't too expensive ....and no idea what brand. will try to find it and lyk. When Beest died, several of the paintball team posted memories on his facebook of him getting up in the morning and cooking bacon on it. The best thing about ours is it has a half rack above the cooking area to keep done food warm also usefull for defrosting if that's how you roll..... Because we are many, that extra rack was essential, may not be such a necessary feature for you, but just thought I'd mention it
@monster - I found a post this week about someone regulary cooking bacon on their grill. I found one, actually, not too expensive, that has a warming rack. I actually didn't realize all the other ones are missing it. I've got it all put together.
The only thing is that one of the locking lid clasps doesn't work. I'm not sure what to do about it
Anyways, here is the one I went with
https://www.lowes.com/pd/Blue-Rhino-Crossfire-Red-Porcelain-12000-BTU-359-sq-in-Portable-Gas-Grill/1000364855yes ours is just like that. It's great
It's made by [COLOR="Blue"]Blue[/COLOR] Rhino.
It's [COLOR="DarkRed"]red[/COLOR].
I may need a safe space.
Or a big ol' dank-stinking fatty.:fumette:
yes ours is just like that. It's great
Oh good! Nice to know it has a good history.
It's made by [COLOR="Blue"]Blue[/COLOR] Rhino.
It's [COLOR="DarkRed"]red[/COLOR].
I may need a safe space.
Just breathe - you'll get through it - lol :D
So, I mentioned that the locking clasp on one side was broken. I went to the store to ask them if they could order a replacement part. Instead, the lady took one off the display. She just requested that I bring back the broken one so they could write off the one for damages. Now, it is built and both latches work :D
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Make sure to shop at that store again. That's good service.
That's amazing, they didn't even request the broken one first.
Yes, like glatt said, shop there whenever practical. :thumb:
Yeah, that's really cool of them.
I KNOW! It was Lowes Home Improvement, so I was expecting it to be a big production. Nope! Although, now I know that if it's just a small part, take it with me.
Probably says more about the sales lady than Lowe's, but absolutely remember her if nothing else! And return because of her.
And be sure to tell her supervisor/manager/boss how helpful she was.
Probably says more about the sales lady than Lowe's, but absolutely remember her if nothing else! And return because of her.
And be sure to tell her supervisor/manager/boss how helpful she was.
True. The problem is I don't have much use for Lowes. I got my grill. I'm good until I need gas.
In case you're not aware of it, your small propane tanks can, in a crunch, be refilled from the larger ones used for gas grilling. It's a hassle to do; but, as long as you can cool down your empty tank (refrigerator, cold running stream, well) to condense what fumes remain, you can get a worthwhile fill level. It just won't be as much as in a new tank. The small propane tanks are fairly inexpensive; so, it's not something you'd want to do regularly. Still, it wouldn't hurt to keep a coupler with your grill just in case you ever need to bum some gas off someone. The coupler is simple and doesn't cost much:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/MacCoupler-E-Z-Propane-Filler-Coupler/232768941772?hash=item36321c2ecc:g:FbAAAOSw9mFa-eCDSo, my great camping triumph fizzled in a deluge of rain. So, I left. Not even 24 hours. I wasn't going to leave, but then, I figured why am I staying? Who am I trying to impress? So, yea. The first evening was fine. A little chilly, but whatever. The second day was weird. Hot, cold, humid, all at once. Still, I set off hiking. I watched the storm roll in. I got soaked on half my hike. Still ok with it. I cleaned up, put on dry clothes, threw a picnic blanket in the wet hammock, threw the wet clothes over a fence to dry. Relaxed. It was awesome. Sun was shining, so I decided to wash the dishes from the previous meals. I grabbed the last dry, warm thing I had and headed there. What happened? Torrential downpour! Fuck! I washed the dishes and waited for the rain to stop. I was still willing to make it work. Now, everything was wet. Even the last hoodie. Then, another downpour. Sitting in my tent, I decided I was miserable and it was time to go home. I was only 2 hours from home, so, I threw everything in the car and left.
Now, I must wait until July for my next trip. *SIGH* I'm going through the pics now.
That was for the best. It's supposed to be for relaxation and not too much like work. I can weather torrential downpours fairly easily with my Gore-Tex lined gear (hooded parka, trousers, gloves, socks, super-gaiters, and sleeping bag cover); but, that stuff is big bucks and requires learning a bit about design, fabrics and construction to get your money's worth. It would take the fun out of car camping unless you're into that kind of stuff for other reasons.
Rain, rain, I'll go away and come again some other day. Strategic withdrawal works fine for most.
You are gaining great experience with each outing. If everything is soaking wet and you have a car, by all means, take advantage of what you have.
You were a volunteer for this mission, which means you can un-volunteer at any time for any reason, like it became un-fun.
What they all said already. It’s supposed to be fun. I hope, I believe, it was fun to get back home into the warm-and-dry. Better luck next time!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Learning to abandon a camping trip because of crappy weather is like learning to put down a book that turned out to be shit halfway through. Hard ... with a guilty sense of failure..... but so liberating and easier each time until the guilt is replaced by pity for those you leave behind who have yet to learn.
Thanks everyone. I went back and forth for a while, but ultimately it was the same as all you said. :)
Hopefully next time will be better. I really want to try sleeping in my hammock one night.
If you have a rope hammock with a spreader bar, a good night's sleep is not in your future!
There are lots of good, comfortable ones out there and many pages on the web.
Get a good one and practice at home.
If you have a rope hammock with a spreader bar, a good night's sleep is not in your future!
Shit. That's the only way to go for me. I feel like a tamale in a regular hammock. I feel like I'm trussed up for the pot.
I have an ENO hammock. A tamale hammock - LMAO. I didn't mind the trussing up. I was able to close it all around me and block out the light for a little rest time. It was nice
All set up
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Laying in my hammock
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Fogginess
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All the food. Not that there was much
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The initial soaking. The subsequent ones got much worse.
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btw your ground cloth should be not be exposed but you probably know that now...
looks to me like the tent has a built-in and is just pitched on top of a bigger ground sheet?
Holy cow, the Gourmet goes wild, you probably used a fork too. :haha:
looks to me like the tent has a built-in and is just pitched on top of a bigger ground sheet?
Tru-nuff. Still a good habit in case of holes.
Griff/monster - yes, there is a separate tarp underneath the tent. I couldn't find a tarp the correct size, so this is slightly bigger. It's for extra protection and insulation. I am pretty sure the bottom of the tent would already be holey by now if not for that!
Bruce - I did use forks!! :D The last lunch was going to be faaaannnncccyyyy - Pork chops and bulgur!!
No fair just showing us the little car and hiding the truck.
No fair just showing us the little car and hiding the truck.
?? I don't have a truck or a car. I have a Nissan Rogue.
Griff/monster - yes, there is a separate tarp underneath the tent. I couldn't find a tarp the correct size, so this is slightly bigger.
When a big tarp/groundcloth sticks out from under the tent so that a few inches or a foot are exposed, you get puddling on the top of that tarp/groundcloth, and the puddles flow under the tent getting the floor wet. It's much more effective at keeping you dry if you fold those flaps of extra tarp under the tent so they are not exposed to the rain.
When a big tarp/groundcloth sticks out from under the tent so that a few inches or a foot are exposed, you get puddling on the top of that tarp/groundcloth, and the puddles flow under the tent getting the floor wet. It's much more effective at keeping you dry if you fold those flaps of extra tarp under the tent so they are not exposed to the rain.
Gotcha. It was actually dry inside the tent itself, even with the over hang
Sorry to hear you were rained out. Bummer!
I am more hardcore and camp no matter the weather since my goals are different than yours. Sleeping in a hammock takes practice, esp since I toss and turn a lot. My hammock is a tent model, so that no actual tent is needed. This is the shelter I plan to use during the zombie apocalypse, where I shall sleep high in sturdy trees to avoid hungry zombies. I wonder how Rick and the others would be doing had they tried that early on?
Sorry to hear you were rained out. Bummer!
I am more hardcore and camp no matter the weather since my goals are different than yours. Sleeping in a hammock takes practice, esp since I toss and turn a lot. My hammock is a tent model, so that no actual tent is needed. This is the shelter I plan to use during the zombie apocalypse, where I shall sleep high in sturdy trees to avoid hungry zombies. I wonder how Rick and the others would be doing had they tried that early on?
I am pretty sure I slept in my hammock during the non-rain part - lol. If I had my rain fly for my hammock and my tarp set up, I don't know if I would have left.
I am not sure what a tent hammock actually is. If I had the rainfly, the hammock I have is all that is needed - no tent required. If I transition fully to hammock sleeping, I wouldn't even set up the tent. Just the changing shelter :D
I am not sure what a tent hammock actually is.
Some calls 'em a jungle hammock:
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Many styles, but ya get the gist of it.
Basically a hammock w/a roof.
ETA:
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Mine looks more like the second one, but without the top half of the hammock. If you google eno hammock with rainfly, you'll see what I've got. I would upload pictures, but I am at work and they have that blocked :/
I think I would get claustrophobic in those. except the last one.
I've just made a new reservation for next weekend. It'll be only a one night stay, so I am trying to think of the best way to pack as little as needed. I may use this to try sleeping in a hammock. I won't be taking the grill or all the kitchen implements. I want to use the camping stove to cook/reheat all of the food. I'll still have a cooler, though, because I hope to be out in the area most of the day and the next day.
It's mainly so I can hit a beach park not far from where I am camping instead of leaving crazy early in the morning for a 4 hour trip. I'll need to take at least a beach chair. I may just use the one I take camping with me.
I hope it doesn't rain.....
I went bicycle camping over the weekend.
The Scout troop was having a "wilderness survival" merit badge camping trip nearby, and it was the perfect opportunity to do something my son and I have always wanted to do, which is carry all your crap on your bike to go camping.
The site is Marsden Tract group campsite, and it's right next to an old canal tow path in Great Falls National Historic Park. The canal is level, with occasional small hills where there are locks, so that part of the ride promised to be easy. It's 12 miles from our house.
One of my son's best friends is a neighbor and also in the troop, so he agreed to join us on the ride.
Since it was wilderness survival themed, the boys planned to build shelters and sleep in them. Each boy packed a hammock though as backup. They each travelled very lightly.
I travelled more heavily. Two water bottles in holders on my frame. I have a rear rack on my bike that I bought specifically for this little trip, and I had a couple small bags lashed to that: A small tent. A dry bag containing my sleeping bag, pad, and some clothes. And my backpacking folding chair. Small improvised panniers had things like a mess kit, flashlights, toiletries, and a tiny camp stove and pot that I never used. I also had a daypack on my back containing basically just a huge expedition crew sized first aid kit. And the pack gave me a place to lash my trekking poles that I need to set up my tent.
Here's the thing. I don't ride bikes much at all. A handful of times a year. You use different muscles when you ride, and those muscles were not in shape. Getting from my house to the canal tow path was all on maybe 5 miles of surface streets in Arlington. Lots of steep hills to traverse before the easy towpath. But I did it. Only had to force the boys to stop and rest at the top of one hill. I had to catch my breath. Google maps thought it should take 1:15 for an average cyclist to do that 12 mile ride. It took us with all our extra weight and my out of shape condition 1:25 to get there. Pretty good, I thought.
The ride back was worse, because I had taken a 2 hour midnight to 2am shift to sit by the fire. The idea was that any of the 20 or so boys who were "sleeping" in the shelters they built might get scared or need help and want to come huddle by the fire for a bit. Took a while for me to fall asleep again after being up for so long in the middle of the night. So I was pretty tired. Plus it was more uphill to get home. Sea level to 300 feet elevation, plus all the ups and downs in between. Anyway it took 1:35 getting home instead of the 1:15 Google predicted.
I really enjoyed it though. Bike camping is cool. I rode from my house to this beautiful location that felt like it was in the middle of nowhere. It helped a lot that I met up with the full troop that had purchased food so I didn't have to carry that.
Couple pictures from the trip:
The canal, about 50 yards away from our site, which was tucked back in the woods. You get a lot of people on this path on a weekend afternoon, but I can tell you there is not a soul there at 2am except me peeing into the canal and a million fireflies.
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A deer in the canal.
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One of the wilderness survival things we were trying to teach the boys was signaling. This is them practicing with mirrors. Some were really good at it, and some terrible.
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We made each boy try until they got the hang of it.
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And my gear.
This is my bike. Unfortunately I had already unpacked so you can't see it loaded. The panniers improvised out of a couple fanny packs are still on there though.
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And my tent and chair.
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Very cool glatt! I don't know that I've ever heard of bike camping. I still think that you did well in the bike time - especially if you don't bike often. You were only 10-20 minutes longer. It would be worse if you were like an hour longer. Plus, all the weight on the bike.
Was there a smooth path like that the whole way? I would expect it to be a bit harder if it was a rocky hiking trail to get to the site, right?
Also, aren't you supposed to be 200 feet AWAY from water when going to the bathroom? And definitely not peeing right into it? Leave no trace and all.
Ha ha ha, when I was reading that I thought bbro had written it and the peeing in the canal stopped me cold. :haha:
Very cool glatt! I don't know that I've ever heard of bike camping. I still think that you did well in the bike time - especially if you don't bike often. You were only 10-20 minutes longer. It would be worse if you were like an hour longer. Plus, all the weight on the bike.
Was there a smooth path like that the whole way? I would expect it to be a bit harder if it was a rocky hiking trail to get to the site, right?
Pretty smooth the whole way. Yeah. Although my street tires didn't like the gravel. I was glad I didn't get a flat because once we were halfway there, I asked my son if he had brought a patch kit and pump and he had not, so that would have been a big pain. But the tires held. They were slightly underinflated, and I think that helped.
Also, aren't you supposed to be 200 feet AWAY from water when going to the bathroom? And definitely not peeing right into it? Leave no trace and all.
:o
It's bad form to pee in a canal, but it didn't harm anyone or anything. There's actually a municipal water spigot about a hundred feet away, so nobody is gathering this water to drink when they have readily available tap water.
In the backcountry where people are gathering stream water to drink, I would never do that. Besides, pee isn't going to get you sick. It's just gross. It's poop that's the real danger.
This was just as we were heading out from my front yard.
You can see the gear I brought. My wife just forwarded this picture she took when we departed home.
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You can find the 200 foot rule for both #1 and #2.
I think it was written by someone who maybe didn't know the difference.
If you search "camp pee" or such, 98% of the advice is for females.
...I thought bbro had written it and the peeing in the canal stopped me cold. :haha:
Bullshit, that just got you warmed up!:p:
:o
It's bad form to pee in a canal, but it didn't harm anyone or anything. There's actually a municipal water spigot about a hundred feet away, so nobody is gathering this water to drink when they have readily available tap water.
In the backcountry where people are gathering stream water to drink, I would never do that. Besides, pee isn't going to get you sick. It's just gross. It's poop that's the real danger.
I'll forgive you this one time. :p:
Not as much stuff on the bike as I would have expected. Very cool. Are you going to do it again?
Very cool glatt!!
Bike touring runs the full spectrum from supported tours to hardcore back country bike packing. You can do anything from nice road based stuff to brutal bike carries deep in the wilderness. I've never done anything heavier than week long bed to bed road tours. If you start searching youtube you'll see how wildly variable the adventure and equipment can be. Fun for many different levels of rider.
Bike camping sort of brings to mind the brutal trek that thousands of North Vietnamese made down the Ho Chi Minh trail, using bicycles to carry hundreds of pounds of food, weapons, ammunition and other supplies.
American artillery, mines, B 52's and such added some challenges.
Heh, I was gonna say 'Kinda'.
Boy, that Ho Chi fella musta been one helluva hiker to have a trail named after him and all.
Another failure under the belt. I stayed a total of 4ish hours before leaving. In that time, I got 11 bug bites. Through the bug spray. That was applied multiple times. And clothes
I didn't bring my tent because I didn't want to pack it and I don't have a bug net for my hammock or I may have toughed it out. Bug nets are EXPENSIVE!
There was also torrential down pour - which my rain fly did a good job of keeping off the hammock. If what I drove through heading home was on it's way to the campsite, I may have made the right decision.
One of these days, I'll get it right. Next one is in July in the mountains. So, I have a couple weeks to either make a net or buy one just in case.
You did get it right, first rule of camping, if it sucks leave. :thumb:
1st rule of camping: Forecast, check it.
1st rule of camping: Forecast, check it.
I did. It was 30% chance. I chanced it. It turned to 50% chance. I am the rain queen
Camping in the rain is possible, trust me. But it's not easy or nice if you're not prepared. I don't know if it's my inner Boy Scout or my inner FAWET-fanatic, but being prepared for rain (or many other trip ruining calamities) is part of the pleasure. It sounds like you were able to weather the storm fairly well, though I wonder if the water/rain/sweat/stress diluted/removed your bug dope. Maybe you're just really tasty! Anyhow 100% DEET is the way to go for me. But then again, I've been told I have terrible taste.
DON'T GIVE UP!
Camping in the rain has joys most people never experience, like having the trail or campsite to yourself. Also, protip--after your self-massage with the DEET, wash your hands. That shit tastes like poison... (wonder why??)
Camping in the rain is possible, trust me. But it's not easy or nice if you're not prepared. I don't know if it's my inner Boy Scout or my inner FAWET-fanatic, but being prepared for rain (or many other trip ruining calamities) is part of the pleasure. It sounds like you were able to weather the storm fairly well, though I wonder if the water/rain/sweat/stress diluted/removed your bug dope. Maybe you're just really tasty! Anyhow 100% DEET is the way to go for me. But then again, I've been told I have terrible taste.
DON'T GIVE UP!
Camping in the rain has joys most people never experience, like having the trail or campsite to yourself. Also, protip--after your self-massage with the DEET, wash your hands. That shit tastes like poison... (wonder why??)
I actually liked it when I was in my hammock, under the rainfly. If I had bug netting, I probably would have toughed it out. I am 100% tasty to bugs. I was using 30% DEET spray. I sprayed it, rubbed it on, not 2 minutes later, I killed a bug biting my arm. I was feeling funky with so many applications. I am not sure DEET is good for me. I need to find my other stuff. It seems to work better, but I haven't used it in a situation like that.
I haven't given up yet! Hopefully the July trip will go well. It is in the mountains, so the bugs should be better. Now, if only the rain would stay away.....
I am the rain queen
:lol2:
WTF does FAWET mean?
Google does not enlighten.
I am the rain queen
Hook up with the Fire King for a steamy relationship. :blush:
This outfit is holding a campout for several hundred people near here this weekend.
https://www.tentsile.com/
Their products look like interesting alternatives to old technology.
All you need is three willing (and strong) trees. And money.
FAWET
Thank you very much!
I actually liked it when I was in my hammock, under the rainfly. If I had bug netting, I probably would have toughed it out. I am 100% tasty to bugs. I was using 30% DEET spray. I sprayed it, rubbed it on, not 2 minutes later, I killed a bug biting my arm. I was feeling funky with so many applications. I am not sure DEET is good for me. I need to find my other stuff. It seems to work better, but I haven't used it in a situation like that.
I haven't given up yet! Hopefully the July trip will go well. It is in the mountains, so the bugs should be better. Now, if only the rain would stay away.....
Sooo back when I hiked the Smokies I bought an Army hammock from the military surplus store. It has a roof, skeetter screens, rain covers and everything zips from the inside or outside. Later when motorcycle camping is when I bought a tent.
I realized I had a camping trip this upcoming weekend. Excitement ensued. Then, I checked the weather. Mother fucking rain. Again. Still on the fence about going or not. The problem is that I took a day off work. It's not that easy to switch them around. Which means if I try to camp there again, it will just be over night.
Why does the universe not want me to camp?
One summer when I was working at the speed shop, the drag races got rained out 13 Sundays in a row. :(
One summer when I was working at the speed shop, the drag races got rained out 13 Sundays in a row. :(
That sucks. Last weekend was gorgeous. Should've camped then. Probably would have still rained.
I'm trying to outsource the decision. So far it's 50/50. One for reschedule and one for go
That sucks. Last weekend was gorgeous. Should've camped then. Probably would have still rained.
I'm trying to outsource the decision. So far it's 50/50. One for reschedule and one for go
Fuck it. I'm going. I'm more prepared this time. I'll actually set up a tarp. At the worst, I'll be "stuck" in my hammock during the rain. [SIZE="1"]oh no![/SIZE]
Have you considered the possibility it will only rain if you go? :lol2:
Have you considered the possibility it will only rain if you go? :lol2:
Yes. Yes I have :right:
You could stand at the entrance to the campground and promise to leave if they pay you. You know, make lemonade. ;)
You could stand at the entrance to the campground and promise to leave if they pay you. You know, make lemonade. ;)
Considering that the Park Rangers are another branch of law enforcement here in NC, I don't want to go to jail. Plus, that wouldn't really help with the rain
I went, it rained, I survived.
I got everything packed and went on my way Saturday midday. Unfortunately, my brain does everything in it's power to forget that Stone Mountain exists (even typed it wrong right there), so I headed to South Mountain instead. I realized my error and turned around. I got there around 4pm. It could've been 2:30 if I had entered the right destination.
I had plenty of time to set up camp. I had my hammock with rainfly, tent, and a shelter that I put a chair under (pics to come later). It seemed to work initially, but then I was sitting in the chair and my head was touching the tarp. Something happened, but I don't know what. I ended up putting a trekking pole under to hold it up. It worked well enough. I also checked out the site I had reserved previously (I changed it when I was paying more attention). It would have SUUUCKED. Almost no trees, so shelter would've been minimal. Stuck in hammock or tent kind of camping.
Unfortunately, I couldn't stake my tent. There were rocks everywhere in the tent pad area. I don't know who thought that was a good idea, but I bent a fucking stake trying to get it in. I finally gave up, threw my shit in and crossed my fingers. It stayed put, so that was good.
I was able to cook Saturday evening. Just as I was finishing, the rain came in. I was able to hang out in my chair and in my hammock. The only problem was I always underestimate how cold it is going to be. The hammock is REALLY cold. the good news is that I really didn't get too wet. I was prepared this time (unlike when I was at hanging rock and bailed the second night).
The next day, I did a small hike to the summit of Stone Mountain. I was warned by a friend that the rocks can get very slippery in the rain. He said not to try to hike in the rain. Since I had NO service, I had no idea what the weather was going to be. I risked it and headed out around 10am. I could see why it would be bad to get caught there in the rain.
At the summit, some idiot broke a tree branch to hang a flag, basically ruining the view. I didn't stay there long because it pissed me off how many people saw it and said "Cool". I went to a lower outlook that I preferred. I did see a storm coming in, so I went back the way I came instead of completing the loop. Torrential downpour started as I pulled into my campsite.
I started getting a migraine, but forgot to bring my meds with me. I accepted having to just deal when I said WTF? I can run to the store. I fumbled around trying to find a signal so I could get maps to find a place for pills. I finally got it, grabbed some Excedrin PM and hustled it back to the site before the gates locked. It was much more pleasant after taking the pills, but I didn't feel like cooking what I had planned and it was still raining. I decided to just make some soup on the camp stove. It was tasty AND fun!
Monday was when I was leaving. My friend had texted me the forecast the day before and it was supposed to rain at noon. I left 8ish to go see a waterfall. It took about an hour. I came back and proceeded to clean up everything but the hammock. I didn't feel like racing the rain to grill, so I had a snack instead and McDonald's (SHAME) on the way home. Apparently the forecast changed and I could've cooked with no problem.
I got home and actually unloaded the car the same day. Except the cooler. I have to dump the water from that. I think it was because, for once, I didn't just shove everything in and run. I only ended up with 4 bug bites, too.
Something that would be great is something that I can use for the weather when I have no signal.
Next trip is in a month. It would be really nice to NOT have rain when camping. Pics to come later (today maybe?)
Sounds... Good?
Better anyway. You stayed pretty dry, only 4 bug bites.
I'm going camping this weekend, if the rain lets up.
Sounds... Good?
Better anyway. You stayed pretty dry, only 4 bug bites.
I'm going camping this weekend, if the rain lets up.
It's funny - my mom kept asking if I was having fun, but I wouldn't call it "fun". Was it enjoyable? Mostly. I was relaxed. I was only annoyed at the migraine, but I was happy I didn't suffer through it like I planned. I was able to be smart and abandon camp to go get meds.
I'm calling it a win because not only did I not bail, but I wasn't miserable the whole time like the other trips. It was work to force myself out of the hammock to go hiking, though. MAN, I love that thing. :heart-on:
If you take canned condensed soup, the rain will add the water while it heats. ;)
If you take canned condensed soup, the rain will add the water while it heats. ;)
Dude, come out of the stone age, they have canned soup that needs no water added!! :sweat:
Yes, but they are heavier to carry and get watered down in the rain. Maybe dry soup then. ;)
Someone here used have the signature line "Never eat soup in the rain. Unless you're fast, you may never finish."
Who was that? Lamplighter, maybe?
I realized I had a camping trip this upcoming weekend. Excitement ensued. Then, I checked the weather. Mother fucking rain. Again. Still on the fence about going or not. The problem is that I took a day off work. It's not that easy to switch them around. Which means if I try to camp there again, it will just be over night.
Why does the universe not want me to camp?
Try renting a rustic cabin somewhere.
bbro, if you were camping with the right partner, at the end of the weekend you wouldn't even know if it had rained. :cool:
@captainhook455 - I have specific parks in mind to camp out. I think I mentioned that I am doing the NC State Park Passport challenge. I need to go to state parks to get the stamp. The ones further away, I am mostly camping at.
@xoxoxoBruce - Ew
@captainhook455 - I have specific parks in mind to camp out. I think I mentioned that I am doing the NC State Park Passport challenge. I need to go to state parks to get the stamp. The ones further away, I am mostly camping at.
@xoxoxoBruce - Ew
Please call me Cap. You probably won't like NC parks. There are no hookups at any site. The vegetation in the campground looks like a Jungle Jim movie. At dusk the no see ums come out to eat you. SC parks are a world away from NC facilities. We like to go to Bucks Creek just north of Charleston.
Here are
27 camping recipes for different meals and snacks.
I'm going through my backlog of pictures, so I should have some for you tonight. Also, I checked the 10 day forecast for my trip next weekend. Fucking rain. Unbelievable. The site better be as good as the photos. If it is, all will be well
As long as it doesn't rain so much that all will be a well.
Campsite
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Final set up
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Update needed when the tarp sagged onto my head - not sure why
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Cooking dinner the first night
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Done!
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Cooking dinner the second night
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Bug dude that followed me around
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The rain. You can only see the sun, but trust me, it's raining.
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Looks like good drainage, no puddles. :thumb:
You've got a nice setup in that Campsite. You've used that hammock a few times now. What are your thoughts? I have never slept in one more than a 20 minute nap.
You've got a nice setup in that Campsite. You've used that hammock a few times now. What are your thoughts? I have never slept in one more than a 20 minute nap.
Thanks! It was a nice one. Compared to the original one I booked, this one is a damn palace!
I actually haven't slept in it at all. It's a bit too exposed for me, but I really would like too. I had a tent that was set up, but it wasn't impressive, so there's no pic. I find it incredibly cold actually. Might be because every time I go camping it rains. I tried a sleeping pad, but it took away the hammockness of it. I have an extra twin comforter I am going to try next weekend for a bit of insulation.
I'm experimenting with pre-made meals this trip. I'm also experimenting with "homemade" dehydrated/canned meal concoctions this trip. I got some dehydrated things at REI today (I don't want to hear about how much they suck. No, seriously, I don't want to hear it). Tomorrow, I am hitting Trader Joes and another REI. I am hoping TJ's has some dehydrated veggies that I can rehydrate in my recipes. Obviously, will post the fails and successes.
Doesn't matter who thinks they suck, unless it's you. WTF, try everything, decide what you like and works with your agenda. You're the boss of this expedition. If you want to take naked selfies in your hammock who can tell you not to. :blush:
Just don't get photobombed by a porcupine.
Thats a nice hammock much lighter than army surplus I'm sure. That one burner stove would go good for motorcycle camping. You would be pressed to find 2 trees close together in a NC park as a campsite is cleared to the edge of the jungle.
You know, all you do is crap on NC State Parks. I like them. Those are the only ones I am camping at. I've never had a problem finding trees to hang my hammock on. There's lots of people who hang their hammocks at other sites, too. Maybe you need to start an "I hate NC State Parks" thread instead of trying to crap all over mine.
You know, all you do is crap on NC State Parks. I like them. Those are the only ones I am camping at. I've never had a problem finding trees to hang my hammock on. There's lots of people who hang their hammocks at other sites, too. Maybe you need to start an "I hate NC State Parks" thread instead of trying to crap all over mine.
Not that I hate them it's that the state won't spend enough money on them. I had a ranger practically beg us to stay a few days longer as we were the only campers there. It once was nice with a bathhouse and swimming area. Bugs. Modern people don't want mosquitoes and knats. I love the Piedmont areas much better than the coast.
Kings Mountain was a state park before they gave it to the feds. The parking lot at the picnic area was eroded as was around the covered picnic tables. The camping area.yech. I am going up to see my grandparents in Rock Hill so will pass by to see what the feds have done to it.
Thanks! It was a nice one. Compared to the original one I booked, this one is a damn palace!
I actually haven't slept in it at all. It's a bit too exposed for me, but I really would like too. I had a tent that was set up, but it wasn't impressive, so there's no pic. I find it incredibly cold actually. Might be because every time I go camping it rains. I tried a sleeping pad, but it took away the hammockness of it. I have an extra twin comforter I am going to try next weekend for a bit of insulation.
Hi bbro!
You really are a camper now, not just some city slicker who's survived an extended day trip. Well done! Your approach is clearly working, try something, take notes, adapt. xoB's right on the money, do what works for you. And keep contributing to this thread! I don't comment much but I read it all with pleasure.
As for the hammock and the sleeping in a hammock...
I've tried, and I found sleeping on the ground a lot nicer. Like you, I found it cold. I sleep cold at all times anyhow and being up in the air made it colder. Also, I'm a side sleeper by preference, and the hammock's not suited for that. Well, the hammock could care less, my spine cares much, much more. Even if I could turn over more easily, I think it would be problematic. I will say that this newer style of hammock I think you have which has a superabundance of lighter, stronger material makes resting in the hammock perpendicular to the attachment points easier. I've tried that, it's comfy. Haven't had the chance to sleep in one that way, but I'd be willing to try.
Looks like good drainage, no puddles. :thumb:
Yep. The land was on a slope, so it was pretty good. I may try something different this time. I don't know why the middle fell like it did. I don't know why the edge of the tarp curled up a bit at the bottom and kept the water in some times. BUT, I didn't get wet, so, it was good.
Hi bbro!
You really are a camper now, not just some city slicker who's survived an extended day trip. Well done! Your approach is clearly working, try something, take notes, adapt. xoB's right on the money, do what works for you. And keep contributing to this thread! I don't comment much but I read it all with pleasure.
As for the hammock and the sleeping in a hammock...
I've tried, and I found sleeping on the ground a lot nicer. Like you, I found it cold. I sleep cold at all times anyhow and being up in the air made it colder. Also, I'm a side sleeper by preference, and the hammock's not suited for that. Well, the hammock could care less, my spine cares much, much more. Even if I could turn over more easily, I think it would be problematic. I will say that this newer style of hammock I think you have which has a superabundance of lighter, stronger material makes resting in the hammock perpendicular to the attachment points easier. I've tried that, it's comfy. Haven't had the chance to sleep in one that way, but I'd be willing to try.
Thanks! I have an ENO double nest hammock. The one I have, I don't think is made anymore, which was probably why it was on sale. There's actually a space to put a pad so you don't have to put it in the hammock itself. I still hated it. It moved, too. I'm gonna stuff the comforter in there, too. Even just for hanging out. I think it would be awesome on a hot day, but since it's always raining, there's always a chill in the air.
I better be a camper with all the rain I've dealt with! LOL
And I just checked the forecast. It's definitely going to rain. I'm thinking of investing in one of those stands with covers. Easier set up and I can put it anywhere without needing trees. Of course, as soon as I buy it, I won't get any rain trips anymore.
Then it will be worth the money just to stop the rain. :D
Tarps sag like that, especially if they get wet. The seam around the edges has the fabric folded a few times, so it's stronger there and less likely to stretch a little bit at that edge. In the center of the tarp, you only have one thickness of fabric and it's gonna stretch just a little. Over the length of a long tarp, it's magnified. When it stretches in the middle, but not at the edges, you get a sag.
One thing I like to do is have a line stretched across the site from tree to tree, pretty tight, and throw the tarp over that line so the line supports it in the middle. Like the ridge beam on a house. You still get some sagging on either side of that line, but it's less than without it. Tightening up the lines at the corners can help get rid of a sag too. But anyone who has been camping in the rain has grabbed a long stick to prop it up in the middle.
In scouting, the boys like to push up on that puddle of water on the tarp as somebody is walking by so it dumps on them.
Tarps sag like that, especially if they get wet. The seam around the edges has the fabric folded a few times, so it's stronger there and less likely to stretch a little bit at that edge. In the center of the tarp, you only have one thickness of fabric and it's gonna stretch just a little. Over the length of a long tarp, it's magnified. When it stretches in the middle, but not at the edges, you get a sag.
One thing I like to do is have a line stretched across the site from tree to tree, pretty tight, and throw the tarp over that line so the line supports it in the middle. Like the ridge beam on a house. You still get some sagging on either side of that line, but it's less than without it. Tightening up the lines at the corners can help get rid of a sag too. But anyone who has been camping in the rain has grabbed a long stick to prop it up in the middle.
In scouting, the boys like to push up on that puddle of water on the tarp as somebody is walking by so it dumps on them.
I got it to hang without sag. All the ropes were pretty tight, but I think they stretched a little, too. I probably didn't buy the right rope, but it was pretty :o
I didn't have any trees to make a middle ridge line, just the front one. I supposed I could've made it over the actual tent pad, but I wanted to be right by the hammock. I'll have to try a middle one next time. It looks like there's a lot of trees around, so I should be able to add some more. Thanks for the tips!
I got it to hang without sag. All the ropes were pretty tight, but I think they stretched a little, too. I probably didn't buy the right rope, but it was pretty :o
I didn't have any trees to make a middle ridge line, just the front one. I supposed I could've made it over the actual tent pad, but I wanted to be right by the hammock. I'll have to try a middle one next time. It looks like there's a lot of trees around, so I should be able to add some more. Thanks for the tips!
I love this thread. It reminds of our camping days on the motorcycle and the days gone by camping with my parents. Some of the things you did or didn't do made me say that happened to us. I get to relive the adventures through you. Keep up the good work.
Tie a big helium balloon to your chair to hold the tarp up.
I have returned. I camped, I didn't get bit, instead something in the plants attacked me. I have red, hurty, itchy bumps on one arm and a small spot on my leg. These two spots would have never come in contact with each other.
My campsite was awesome. The pictures (of course) were misleading. They were probably taken YEARS ago when it was first built. Still, the site (as told by the front desk lady) is the most coveted site in the park. I could see why
The site is situated directly next to the river. I think it was James Fork River, but none of the maps say what it is. There was a small dam that was crazy loud at night. All you could hear was the river. No way to stop and listen to see if an unknown animal was getting into the tent. It was creepier the second night because almost everyone left. I had no people around me. Either the wind made the tent vent flap or something was trying to get in. I have no idea. I didn't look. Too scared. I didn't see any evidence of animals the next morning, so if was probably the wind. It didn't help that you could hear the horses from the equestrian camp grounds. Brought to mind a particular horror story I read about a horse head. *shudder* When I first heard them, I thought it was kids screaming. Nope. Horses.
I did get pretty creative with the tarp this time. It only rained the one day, but it was brilliant if I do say so myself. I'll have pics soon.
The hammock was set up right next to the river. It had a great view when the rainfly was up. River started to smell a bit when it wasn't raining. But I figure that's kind of normal. Kind of creeped me out how many people were swimming in it. Luckily, not by the camp sites. The family next to me did take a walk in the river with the kids falling constantly and finding deep holes that the stumbled into. Real smart. One kid kicked a rock. Poor thing - none of the parents seemed to give a shit.
I got some hiking in, but after the first day, it never rained completely, just drizzled now and then to make the humidity almost unbearable. I need to go back to see the waterfall. I didn't want to go after my other hike even though it was a short distance because of all the people there. It really was a popular park.
It amazes me how many people start out on a hike with no map, no idea of how hard the trail is, how long the trail is, etc. Even if I didn't hike as much as I do, I still would get a map before going. The maps have all that information on them. So many dumbass people in inappropriate shoes with a single 12oz bottle of water on a hard 5+ mile hike. Not just this park, but all of them. I get stopped so much be people wanting to know how much longer a trail is.
For the food, I only took a camp stove and pre-packaged food. Some of it was stuff from the grocery stores that I mixed. Some of it was dehydrated food. I can say with certainty that the food from the grocery store was better (obviously). I'll have a better write up of that when I finish my post for my food people. Also, I still don't like oatmeal. And my regular cooler sucked in keeping cool for the entire weekend. Even with 2 48 hour cold packs in it. I will still probably take my good cooler even with just a few items. Nothing like cold water in the humidity.
My next trip is in one and a half weeks. I am going to peruse my backpacking cookbooks and get some ideas. While having a grill is fun, it's kind of a pain in the ass when it's just me. When I get a fire going, I can cook over that, too. And use my hot dog fork!!
Also, I really need to do something about sleeping. The sleeping pad isn't working. I'm debating skipping the cot and going straight to an
airbed. If I return my sleeping pad and get this, I'm actually saving money, sadly.
Pictures coming soon!!
When people ask how long the trail is just say, "I don't know, I've been lost for weeks." :haha:
The long awaited food post (right? right?)
I was going to hike and have a sandwich after arriving, but I decided to relax in the hammock and make some soup. Can of chicken, can of cream of chicken soup, and a little plastic bowl of corn (like the fruit bowls, but veggies).
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Next, was my first foray into pre-prepared bag meals. There was SO much waste with this. The food was pretty good, but it wasn't very filling. At under 200 calories, it definitely needs something else to pad it. I can see how it would be useful in emergencies with no power. The only thing you need to heat it is some liquid (don't be gross)
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The next day, it was my first try of a dehydrated meal. It was ok. I missed a step, so not a lot of the water was used correctly. And there were still dehydrated egg bits. There was so much bacon in it, that was all I could taste.
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I had a sandwich while hiking for lunch
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Then, for dinner, another me meal. Dehydrated broccoli from Trader Joe's, broccoli cheese soup, and a can of chicken
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Breakfast the next day was another OMeal. It was oatmeal. Pretty sure I still don't like oatmeal. I don't have a picture because it looked like fucking oatmeal.
For lunch, I was supposed to have the other sandwich I made, but the fucking bread had mold on it. I couldn't believe it. The one left at home was covered in it. Apparently, the Trader Joe's bread isn't made to last even a week. Next time, I'm using different bread.
Honestly, I don't even remember what I ate for lunch. I had to be out of the site by noon, so I was actually out at 10am.
Up next, my camp site.
Camp site. The reason it's the most popular ones
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Setup. The hammock is behind the tent
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I didn't have enough trees, so I had to get a little creative with how I anchored the tarp. Tree trunk
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Picnic table
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Metal pole (from the comfort of my hammock)
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Hey, you didn't go hungry which is a very good place to be on the learning curve of camping cooking. Good on you. :thumb:
@Bruce - I never go hungry!
All new stuff ordered for the next trip. Hoping it gets here in time since I am too cheap to pay for express delivery.
- Rectangular sleeping bag rated to 30 degrees
- Air mattress linked in earlier post
- Camping pillow with removable/washable cover
I noticed at my last trip that my pillow just keeps getting damp. I don't like that. I have fears of it getting mold and killing me. I have no way of washing it because my apartment complex has the cheapest washers on the market. I figured this would be a better solution.
When I get the new stuff, I'll take the old stuff back for a full refund. I should end up only paying for the water shoes I bought.
Hey bbro
just a quick observation.
You're begging for trouble laying out that groundcloth/tarp so that it extends beyond the bottom edge of the tent. It's a bad habit, it doesn't help you in the least in this situation. You'd setup a carpet like that in your house, or a placemat at the dinner table, I totally get how it *looks* right, but I promise you it's a bad idea.
What you're trying to protect here is the bottom of the tent, the floor of the tent. You want to protect it from water and from sharp things, rocks and sticks. The water is the problem when the groundcloth extends beyond the footprint of the tent. The water is not coming up from the ground to the tent (unless you pitch your tent in a puddle), it's coming down from the sky. You *want* it to hit the tent roof and the fly and the walls and continue downward into the ground, right at the edge of the tent. Into the ground/gravel/dirt. Giving a little lip/ledge for the water to hit before it can reach the dirt redirects it to the underside of the tent. PRESTO, you're camping in a puddle.
I'm not the camping boss of you--do what you want. But I am speaking with the voice of experience.
:)
Digging a trench at the drip line helps too. Scouting teaches more than knot tying.
When I use to camp there were only a few raised gravel platforms. Most parks didn't have them. I would look at the ground to see if there were water trails from rain. As tempting as a bare spot is under a tree that is not the spot for a tent.
I bet those campers who swam out of their tents wished that they camped on the hill where the photographer is standing.haha.
Hey bbro
just a quick observation.
You're begging for trouble laying out that groundcloth/tarp so that it extends beyond the bottom edge of the tent. It's a bad habit, it doesn't help you in the least in this situation. You'd setup a carpet like that in your house, or a placemat at the dinner table, I totally get how it *looks* right, but I promise you it's a bad idea.
What you're trying to protect here is the bottom of the tent, the floor of the tent. You want to protect it from water and from sharp things, rocks and sticks. The water is the problem when the groundcloth extends beyond the footprint of the tent. The water is not coming up from the ground to the tent (unless you pitch your tent in a puddle), it's coming down from the sky. You *want* it to hit the tent roof and the fly and the walls and continue downward into the ground, right at the edge of the tent. Into the ground/gravel/dirt. Giving a little lip/ledge for the water to hit before it can reach the dirt redirects it to the underside of the tent. PRESTO, you're camping in a puddle.
I'm not the camping boss of you--do what you want. But I am speaking with the voice of experience.
:)
I know, I know. glatt, Grav and monster all mentioned it, too, on my first solo trip. :blush: I'll have to tape it up or something. Otherwise, I'm just not gonna. I don't use it for anything other than putting it under my tent. Even with using it, I think I found some holes in my tent floor. I'll have to "patch" those next trip. What I really need is a proper tent, but those bad boys are EXPENSIVE! Or I'm just cheap!
My next trip is this weekend coming up. The weather forecast depends on where you are looking. One says some chance of rain every day. One says only one day of moderate/heavy rain. The camping this time will be more of a base camp type thing. I am using it to visit parks in the north east corner of the state. I'm hoping that since it's not in the mountains, I'll have data access to check the weather.
Most of the meals this time will be eaten at local restaurants. I'm technically starting my vacation, so I figured why not. This may require me to shower at the site which does not make me happy. I have issues with bugs in bathrooms. Especially when overhead. BUT I'll still need 2 dinners, 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and some snacks (not including the extra I always have). I think I am going to just repeat the last dinners while they're still fresh and tasty in my mind. I probably won't have a fire roaring because if it doesn't rain, it's going to be in the 90s
For the tarp under the tent, you can just fold it and tuck the excess under the tent. Smooth it flat and you won't even notice it when you are inside the tent.
For the tarp under the tent, you can just fold it and tuck the excess under the tent. Smooth it flat and you won't even notice it when you are inside the tent.
True, but as evidenced by the past few trips, I'm not gonna do that. I'll tape it to the right size, then I don't have to think about it again. :D
It has been my experience that restaurants near tourist attractions leave alot to be desired. My son and I take our motorcycles to Cherokee, NC once a year and rent a cabin with a kitchen. If you like dry meatloaf or dry salmon the restaurant is the way to go. We went to the KFC and they were out of dark chicken. WTH? It is best to visit the local Food Lion and cook in camp. Where we stay has a full kitchen, but I bring a deep frying pan with a glass lid.
If anyone would like to check this place out the accommodations are real log cabins. They brought them from various locations so they wouldn't be lost to rot. Its called ' Cabins in the Pines'. Really nice with all the trees and quiet until we fire up the bikes. The phone number is 828-497-9709. Believe it or not they take checks. Last year it was 65 a night for a house.
So, I was looking into the rest of the camping trips and realized the last one is actually a hike in site. I'm not sure what to do. I don't want to have to buy a hole bunch of stuff for one night. It's a mile hike in, so it's not like I can make multiple trips to the car to carry everything.
I am contemplating sleeping in a hammock, but even then, I don't know how to get the stuff to the site. I have one day pack for hiking (not very big) and another day pack (about the same size) as an extra. I can leave my hiking backpack in the car, maybe, since I'll probably pass it on my way out. But, then I have to think about the hammock, rainfly (I think we all know it's gonna rain), sleeping bag, clothes, food (if I attempt to cook at the site), possible bear canister, and all the odds and ends I might need. *SIGH*
Like, I want to go, but at the same time, I'm not sure I CAN go logistically. Any advice is appreciated.
Well, it's a different game, hiking in to a site. You need to take less stuff than you normally would, and you don't want any of your stuff to be too heavy. You need something big enough to hold all your stuff.
Is there drinking water at the site, or do you need to buy a purification system or carry water in?
There are a lot more logistics to hiking in to a site.
You are capable to handle all of them, but you will probably have to spend some money on at least some new gear, unless you can borrow some.
Well, it's a different game, hiking in to a site. You need to take less stuff than you normally would, and you don't want any of your stuff to be too heavy. You need something big enough to hold all your stuff.
Is there drinking water at the site, or do you need to buy a purification system or carry water in?
There are a lot more logistics to hiking in to a site.
You are capable to handle all of them, but you will probably have to spend some money on at least some new gear, unless you can borrow some.
There are spigots in the camping area. It's this park.
https://www.ncparks.gov/crowders-mountain-state-park
There's no one to borrow anything off of :( REI has a used gear outlet now, but it's still expensive. I think there is a used store near Asheville (where I'm going next week). I was also thinking of renting, if I can find somewhere. I know REI does, but I don't know which locations. I would think I need, at least, a tent and pack and a bear canister (if I need it). Everything else, I think, I can do with what I have.
I found this site which looks promising!
https://www.outdoorsgeek.comREI is high end, maybe look for cheaper stuff that you'll only use once is awhile.
How much does the tent you have now weigh? It's only a mile. You can carry an 8 pound tent that far. You don't need a backpacking tent.
You probably will need a big backpack though. Unless you have a big duffel bag you can sling over your shoulder. Check craigslist. Or ebay. The summer is winding down, you might find that people are unloading their gear.
@Bruce - true, but I can return it even after it's used for a year. Honestly, I'd like to avoid buying stuff right now.
@glatt - Amazon says 7 pounds. Honestly, it's not really the weight that worries me (I'm stronger than I seem ;) ), it's the ease of carry. The tent isn't made to pack down small. It's long, fat and awkward in the case. Maybe a stuff sack would help. I have a duffel bag, but I don't know what the trail is like. I've asked in my hiking groups, though.
It's not until November, so I have some time to play around. Maybe I'll pack everything in the duffel and see how it does. I can walk around the local park. There's a .4 mile trail I can do twice to see if I can carry it.
Is the tent in its own nylon bag? If so, just strap it to the outside of your duffel.
It's not ideal to have lots of loose stuff swinging around on the outside of your pack, but for a mile, you can tolerate just about anything. My daughter a year ago carried two gallon jugs of water in her hands to a hike in site a mile from the lot. It looked uncomfortable, but she said it was no big deal.
It's in a bag. Not a very nice/good bag, but a bag. Just about everything is in some sort of bag or can be. I love putting things in things. It's just that then you have a bunch of bags of things that need to be put in a bigger thing.
The good news, I suppose, is that I was actually looking to get a bigger pack for winter hiking (I need the room for the extra layers). I only have a 20L now. Maybe this is the perfect excuse to buy another one!
I was gonna suggest a frame pack. For all those things inside things.
I was gonna suggest a frame pack. For all those things inside things.
I used a frame pack in the Boy Scouts that my mother bought for me. ( I never appreciated her enough) I used it alot as the troop camped twice a month. It really came in handy at Philmont. Maybe find a used pack from a former scout. Most hikers on the AT have a bell jingling on the pack for bears. Bears will be concentrating on a log or berry patch and are upset at a surprise hiker. Someone is behind a door jumps out and scares you. They are laughing, are you happy?
Crowder Mtn is a beautiful place. I hope you take advantage of what is there.
Ugh - I just don't know. I am really tempted to rent just to make it easier on myself. I also kind of like the idea of hiking everything in with a big duffel so I can say I am strong like bull :sweat:
But, I just got my new air mattress which is 8 pounds. Plus the tent at 7 pounds. Plus the clothes and sleeping bag and food.
Maybe if I walk around with it once a week from now until then, I'll be strong enough :lol2:
Amazon sells basic generic backpacking packs for under $40. They aren't the best by a long shot, but they will get you there.
I'm a fan of buying good quality things that will work for a long time, but at the same time, a mediocre pack for $40 that will easily handle a mile hike in to a site might be good to have on hand. It will at least teach you enough about what you like and don't like. You'll learn what to look for in a real pack.
You have rope. You can lash the tent and pad to the top of the pack if they don't fit inside. Or carry one under each arm. A mile is only half an hour. You can do that.
I checked out the park at the link you provided and looked at it in Google Earth. The trail to the camping area is pretty much all wooded with a little bit of up and down, but not much. Looks like a nice place, and the trail that goes to the bluffs looks really cool. After dropping your stuff off at the site, you should check that out.
Maybe I am just grumpy today, but it seems to me that camping and walking a mile (or many) to get there is sort of what humans did with little fanfare for 99% of our time here.
An eight pound air mattress!?
Betcha only use that on one backpacking trip.
Don't forget the trail-mix...
I was gonna suggest a frame pack. For all those things inside things.
I used a frame pack in the Boy Scouts that my mother bought for me. ( I never appreciated her enough) I used it alot as the troop camped twice a month. It really came in handy at Philmont. Maybe find a used pack from a former scout. Most hikers on the AT have a bell jingling on the pack for bears. Bears will be concentrating on a log or berry patch and are upset at a surprise hiker. Someone is behind a door jumps out and scares you. They are laughing, are you happy?
Crowder Mtn is a beautiful place. I hope you take advantage of what is there.
I prefer external frame frame packs as well. They're just a lot handier for packing and you don't need to go down the rabbit hole of super expensive compressed gear.
An 8lb air mattress is a little heavy better to buy a roll up foam mattress. Go to Walmart and buy the container of bungee cords for strapping sleeping pad, tent and sleeping bag to the pack.
@glatt - I'm like you. I hate buying something that is not good quality. I cheaped out on the tent and I'm pretty sure it already has holes. I'll look into them, but since it is one trip, I'm leaning towards muscling it or rent. I am also asking the one friend I have that may have a bigger pack I can borrow. Then, I'll figure out the rest as I go.
@BigV - it is only supposed to be for car camping, but to offset the cost, I'm taking the smaller/lighter air pad back to the store. Also, I was kind of joking :)
@Bruce - already done -
http://cellar.org/showpost.php?p=1013200&postcount=316@glatt - I'm like you. I hate buying something that is not good quality. I cheaped out on the tent and I'm pretty sure it already has holes.
The funny thing is that the more money you spend on a tent, the lighter it will be and the easier it will be to get holes because the fabric will be thinner and lighter.
The funny thing is that the more money you spend on a tent, the lighter it will be and the easier it will be to get holes because the fabric will be thinner and lighter.
But, I wonder if that's just for backpacking tents? Regular camping tents don't usually worry about weight since you aren't hauling for a while.
Good News everyone! My one friend has a pack big enough for 3+ days AND is willing to let me borrow it! I'm excited. I'm going to try to sleep in the hammock this weekend, but it might just be too cold for that by then. I'll need to carry in the tent and I have a cheapo sleeping pad I always forget about that I can use. The rest of it should fit in the pack!!
It is time to pack that pack and hike around the neighborhood to see what needs to be left behind. A not so easy exercise is to put a 5 gallon jug of water in the pack and hike with that.
At Philmont I took a page from the Bible and packed the food which got lighter everyday. My partners pack never got lighter.
Quick update - the air mattress is wonderful. First morning in the woods that I'm not in pain. Might need a bigger tent though. This bad mamma jamma takes up lots of room.
Camp pillow is working out, too, but mostly as a prop up for the sheet I'm using on top of it.
I didn't use my sleeping bag last night cause I was hot. Now, I'm cold. Gonna use it tonight.
Dumb question - if the outside of tent gets wet, are you supposed to feel the wet on the inner walls?
Sent from my tent
Sent from your tent!
Awesome that you slept well.
You ask a simple question, but the answer is more complicated. Nobody wants the inner walls of their tent to get wet, but it sometimes happens.
You get two kinds of wet in a tent. Rain getting in and condensation. In your situation last night it was probably the rain. Your rainfly, if I recall correctly, doesn't cover your entire tent. The parts of your tent that are exposed will get wet in the rain, and if the rain is long enough, the water soaks into the fabric wicks its way into the inside and beads up. A good design of a tent will have a rainfly that covers the entire tent, but is some distance away from the tent, so when the water soaks into the rainfly and beads up on the underside, it doesn't touch the inner tent to get it wet.
Condensation is usually a bigger problem. It's almost always warmer and more humid inside a tent than outside the tent. It's most pronounced in cooler weather, but can happen on a hot summer night too. Moisture from your breath collects on the inside of the tent and condenses there where it meets the slightly cooler temperature from the outside.
The ideal way to avoid condensation is to have lots of ventilation. Not ideal on a cold night. Again, the best tents for fighting moisture have a nice big rainfly that stands off the tent by several inches. The fly will get wet from rain or condensation, but the inner tent stays dry. Helps if the inner tent has a lot of screening.
I have a Slumberjack Trail 3 that is rellly good at keeping me dry in rain and condensation situations. But it's a heavy 8 pounds. Not too expensive at around $110.
Pffft, why spend $110 for a Slumberjack Trail 3 when for less than a bitcoin you can get one of these single wall, waterproof/windproof, vapor permeable tents⸮
[YOUTUBE]kglnKJiEpNc[/YOUTUBE]
Thanks for the info. I'll respond longer when I'm out of the woods. Debating leaving early again. Bugs are bad. Either tent or bug net are my only options. I don't want to eat dinner in a bug net
So, the wet was not condensation. I actually leave a bit of the doors open (there's screens for venting) even when it's cold or it gets too hot and stuffy in the tent. This wet was more from the water hitting the ground and splashing up, I guess. The rainfly on the tent goes a bit over the front and back, but not as far over the sides. It's not flush with the sides, it just doesn't stick out as far. I guess that's why the walls there aren't protected as well?
Well, good to know, anyways. I thought it was because I bought a cheap tent or something. 8 pounds is only 1 pound more than what I have now. I think I can handle that :D
I have some pictures, but I'm in the woods in the mountains (in an Airbnb) trying to digest my dinner. I feel like a python.
I did end up leaving. It was a good thing, I got more than double the bug bites while packing up. I'm up to 21. Including one on my foot arch. Unbelievable. I'm pretty sure I'm going to cancel my next camping trip at a lake and just do day trips instead. It'll waste some gas, but I won't be miserable, so it's a win, I think. Plus, I'll save 40 bucks.......and use it for the gas.
You've attacked this like it's mission from your commanding officer. STOP!
It's supposed to be a fun weekend, not a suicide mission to win some war.
The original point was to camp so you could see more territory, camping was the method, not the goal.
But, but, if she does a hitch in the military, she'll get one of those great tents like in the video above and see lots of new territory!
Travel to foreign countries. Meet new people. And kill them.
What's that from?
Full Metal Jacket, maybe?
You've attacked this like it's mission from your commanding officer. STOP!
It's supposed to be a fun weekend, not a suicide mission to win some war.
The original point was to camp so you could see more territory, camping was the method, not the goal.
?? I'm not sure what you're trying to say?
I think he's saying that camping is a means more than an end. Over planning and overpacking and over expecting....
you're going about it like the goal is to do normal things outside. Which is all fine if you're practicing for something, but the idea of camping is so you can go do something for a few days where it would not work if you had to go home to sleep each night. at least it is t me....
but maybe you are enamored with the adventure of the logistics. It sure looks like you're having fun obsessing about each detail. you do you, and don't worry about what we think of WHY.
also, that video up there^
the pciture is SO clear on my monitor. it's like i could reach in and poke the guy in the head. high def stuff
I started to say what time is it, but I see its not 9pm yet. ^^^.
My wife gets a tube of Procto-Med HC 2.5% for her hemorrhoids. What pray tell does this have to do with camping? Its great for ant and bug bites. It quits hurting almost immediately. A tube lasts a long time, but after trying you will want to run the prescription even if you don't need any. Now if you don't mind telling your doctor that you have a hemorrhoid on your ass you can get a script. It is doubtful the doc will look at your asshole.
The technical reason why is: it's shot at 60 frames per second. We are used to 24 frames per second (that's film), 30 frames per second digital video... 60 fps is here now
[COLOR="Silver"]and wait til you see the 60 fps porn omg it's practically dangerous[/COLOR]
The technical reason why is: it's shot at 60 frames per second. We are used to 24 frames per second (that's film), 30 frames per second digital video... 60 fps is here now
[COLOR=Silver]and wait til you see the 60 fps porn omg it's practically dangerous[/COLOR]
so, of course I immediately googled 60 fps porn.
it seems to be shot to watch on the VR headgear.... all dual image like for the old stereogram viewers.... shot in first person. that must be crazy. how much are those rigs?
oh i'm not involved in production
:D
oh i'm not involved in production
:D
Why not? There's a fortune to be made by a stud like yourself. :confused:
Or get a couple robots and critique porn films on the screen for your own cable show.
I think he's saying that camping is a means more than an end. Over planning and overpacking and over expecting....
you're going about it like the goal is to do normal things outside. Which is all fine if you're practicing for something, but the idea of camping is so you can go do something for a few days where it would not work if you had to go home to sleep each night. at least it is t me....
but maybe you are enamored with the adventure of the logistics. It sure looks like you're having fun obsessing about each detail. you do you, and don't worry about what we think of WHY.
I see. I mean, I am enjoying it for the most part. I like learning something new every time. It sucks that I keep going home, but I just couldn't deal with the bugs. I would love to figure out exactly where I can and can't camp.
I like trying to cook real food (if/when I can actually build a fire). I am slowly letting some things go - like the grill. It's just too much of a pain in the ass. I like (mostly) trying things out before I'm so far that I can't actually go home. It makes me feel like when this year is out, I can do the camping thing without thinking too much about it and just go. It also gives me an idea of the comfort level of possibly backpacking (don't think I can do that until I can get used to hammock sleeping).
I'm even taking notes!! :crazy::crazy:
And the idea of getting to all the parks? I am on a mission there! I WILL get all the stamps by the end of the year!!
:yesnod:The best way to beat the bugs is camp somewhere windy, like a mountain top or shore. But both of them bring up different shit like lightning and alligators.
I agree, camping alone the prospect of building a fire and cooking a multi course meal is far from tempting. If there's a group cooking can be a shared thing, a fun thing.
But alone, cookies and corn chips would go well with a good book. :D
edit: I've got it, you need a Faraday cage, I giant bug zapper you can sit in.
I would gladly lounge in a Faraday cage provided the NC noseeums can't get through.
I think I'm still going to try to camp at Lake Waccamaw in a couple weeks (depending on what the status of the park is after the hurricane). It'll suck to have to abandon camp again because of bugs, but if it works out, then I will be a happy camper. It's worth the risk, I think.
There are lightweight protective base layers out there that work against many, though not all, insects. They're made of nylon which dries relatively quickly if it gets wet. The main drawback is that they're expensive. You might want to peruse them. Here's one brand:
Rynoskin
They can be bought for less than what the manufacturer sells them direct (if you can find the size and color you want):
Walmart
Just some nice to know information.
I would gladly lounge in a Faraday cage provided the NC noseeums can't get through.
I think I'm still going to try to camp at Lake Waccamaw in a couple weeks (depending on what the status of the park is after the hurricane). It'll suck to have to abandon camp again because of bugs, but if it works out, then I will be a happy camper. It's worth the risk, I think.
First you spray the screens before bedtime and inside too. Get the liquid with the finger pump bottle as there are more oz and less aerosol.
Second I live 30 minutes from the lake. I will buy you lunch. Dales Seafood is right there at the lake. They suck. There is a decent small Chinese restaurant by Hills when you roll into town(ha). When they serve your food you have to wait for it to cool to eat. The other decent place is in Whiteville.
Rynoskin wants $15 to ship one shirt... ouch.
@sexobon - Full body suit? In North Carolina summers? That is only "resistant" to mosquito bites costing $100? I think I'll just find places to camp where they don't bite me.
@captainhook455 - I'd be happy to meet up for lunch cap! Chinese is good for me. We can work out the details closer to the date.
I'd be more concerned with ticks and chiggers, but camping in campgrounds and hiking established trails is safer than wilderness stuff where it's hard to be aware of everything that might be crawling on you.
I'm a big fan of permethrin on long pants and long sleeves. I'd rather be hot than have lyme disease.
I initially bought Sawyer permethrin, but just recently discovered Martin's permethrin for about one 50th the cost, you just have to dilute it the correct amount before spraying with your own sprayer.
I'm a big fan of permethrin on long pants and long sleeves. I'd rather be hot than have lyme disease.
I initially bought Sawyer permethrin, but just recently discovered Martin's permethrin for about one 50th the cost, you just have to dilute it the correct amount before spraying with your own sprayer.
I used it on all my hiking clothes. Apparently, I didn't use enough. I got bit through my pants last time.
@sexobon - Full body suit? In North Carolina summers? That is only "resistant" to mosquito bites costing $100? I think I'll just find places to camp where they don't bite me.
Yeah, well, the nylon weave is designed to wick moisture away from the body and help cool through evaporation. They used to advertise a comfort rating to 96° F. Nylon undergarments can work well. I know a little about what works in North Carolina summers having lived there for several years while assigned to Fort Bragg; also, going through Special Forces training at Camp Mackall and over in the Uwharrie National Forest. There are certainly less expensive alternatives for recreational ventures though.
Permethrin on clothes and Marathon 35% DEET worked in some nasty mosquito country ... but if you have the pheromones that attract mosquitoes, you may be out of luck.
I used it on all my hiking clothes. Apparently, I didn't use enough. I got bit through my pants last time.
Tape the legs of long pants with duct tape. Too tight on the inside to get in and too slick on the outside for a toehold.
When to want to make camp before sunset...
I AM SO ready to run away to the woods this weekend. I'll be in Pilot Mountain this time. I don't know how much hiking I'll do. It's been a stressful week and I need some relax time, but the idea of eating lunch on the some cave like spots I remember from last time is attractive. I'll have to go through my pics. I don't know how much of a view it has if you don't climb up. And you can't climb the pinnacle anymore
I'm hoping it'll be cool enough to cook on the fire with hobo packs, but I'll bring some back up soups just in case. After all, I have plenty from the hurricane.
I am nervous about the site. The pictures online don't show much. But, then I think, as long as I have somewhere to hang my hammock, I'll be good. I'm crossing my fingers that the bugs won't be bad here. I just want a nice non-stressful outing
HOOOOLY SHIT! I may not see rain until I leave this time! And I get to light a fire cause it's not gonna be hot as satan's buttcrack!!
Have fun and be careful.
Whats a hobo pack?
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CAMPFIRE: Place on hot coals near the edge of your campfire and allow to cook 25-30 minutes, or until meat is done. GRILL: Place on medium/hot grill for 40 minutes; rotate 1/2 way through cook time. OVEN: Preheat oven to 350°F Place on cookie sheet or cooking stone; bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until meat is done.
20-30 minutes? No wonder my potatoes weren't done.
Also, apparently it takes me 2 hours to make a fire. Yesterday I messaged my friend for help. Got it lit right away with her help. This morning was a little harder. More smoke than fire. Apparently I picked the shitiest of the bunch to start with. Other logs are burning fine. Gonna need to buy more wood
I used to gather tinder and stuff it in a water tight bag for the morning fire. One of those $3 fireplace logs from Walmart works even better. Chip pieces off. They sell it in a pack of finger sized sticks if pressed for room. Down here I gather pine straw for the tinder. By the time I am ready to cook the pine ash has disintegrated.
I used to gather tinder and stuff it in a water tight bag for the morning fire. One of those $3 fireplace logs from Walmart works even better. Chip pieces off. They sell it in a pack of finger sized sticks if pressed for room. Down here I gather pine straw for the tinder. By the time I am ready to cook the pine ash has disintegrated.
It wasn't the tinder, sadly. I got that lit a couple times and it burned for a few minutes, but the wood itself just WOULDN'T light! I'll have to check out the fireplace logs. I was thinking of trying to make my own firestarter, too. Cause, why not :D
This is my last official camping trip. I'm cancelling the one I have to back pack into. It's not far, but the more I think about it, the more I am dreading it. I am not excited, so why do it? I'm thinking of hitting it on my way to the airbnb I am staying at for gorges state park. If I had someone to do it with, that would be different.
For the past weekend, though, I had a lovely time. I read and had a fire. That was IT. It was just what I needed. No hiking, just relaxing. I have some pictures on my phone, I just need to get the uploaded so I can download and attach :rolleyes: I actually cooked food! It was great!!
I also had a weird thing happened. I bought a new sleeping bag a while back, but hadn't tried it until this weekend. I used it (probably too soon) and noticed the next morning the outer shell was wet as was my air mattress. Is it like pulling my sweat away and out? Should I be concerned? Should I put something on the air mattress to protect it?
It's most likely just dew. Depending on how airtight your tent is, some mixture of your breath and the general humidity condensing.
It's most likely just dew. Depending on how airtight your tent is, some mixture of your breath and the general humidity condensing.
It was only on the bottom of the sleeping bag and on the mattress, only where the two meet. If it was the dew, wouldn't it be everywhere? (I missed this clarification in my original post, sorry)
My tent is 100% NOT airtight. There's mesh coverings in the ceiling and at the floor. There's also two "windows" that I had partially open to let in the air when I slept.
Condensation.
The sleeping bag has loft, to trap air and better retain heat, except where you're laying on it compressing it. Body heat radiates through the bag more easily there carrying moisture (water vapor molecules) from your skin and trapping it along with ambient moisture, between the warm surface of the bag and cooler air mattress, where it condenses into water molecules.
Either that or it's a bladder control issue. :p:
In case you meet a moose... remember they don't knock you down and run away, they tap dance on you.
Some pics of camping from the phone
Site pics taken on the second day
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First fire from the first night
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I put the first dinner on the grill. It was a rush since it took so long to get the fire going, it was late. So, sorry for the blurry photos and no finished dish. I was HUNGRY
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Done peppers - needed more salt
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Raw potatoes. I actually put these back int he fire when I was relaxing. One of the packets ended up being ripped, so I turned potatoes into charcoal
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I used leftovers of the sausage and potatoes to go with my eggs in the morning. It took 2 hours to light the fire, but I still didn't get the sausage and potatoes heated up right. I have to work on that.
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Since it took so long to light the fire, I kept that bad boy running for about 10 hours. I used some downed wood to help (which I found out later isn't actually allowed). Oops :p:
I used the fire to cook some ham for later use (that I should really use)
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I forgot a spatula to turn the burgers, so I put them on foil in case they fell apart or dropped while using the tongs. I actually ended up poking holes in the foil so the fat would drain out. I worked pretty well!
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Finished - supplemented with noodles that I didn't take a picture of because they were trader joe's instant ramen
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The fire finally dying out
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Hope you enjoyed it
Well bbro that is about the nicest camp site I have seen in a while. I love rocks.
That is a well built fire good as a boy scout, but you are using green park wood that is bought at the country store. You have to have a helluva tinder base to get that going. Go outside the park gates to find dry wood which is easily broken into smaller pieces.
Oh by the way if you make a soap solution with bar soap and apply to the outside of the pots before cooking you will find the soot so much easier to clean.
Well bbro that is about the nicest camp site I have seen in a while. I love rocks.
That is a well built fire good as a boy scout, but you are using green park wood that is bought at the country store. You have to have a helluva tinder base to get that going. Go outside the park gates to find dry wood which is easily broken into smaller pieces.
Oh by the way if you make a soap solution with bar soap and apply to the outside of the pots before cooking you will find the soot so much easier to clean.
Thanks for the cleaning tip!
My friend taught me how to build the fire, so I'll let her know you approve :D
I am using the park's wood because it's easier. It was actually kiln dried wood, so not green. Not all of the parks have anywhere close to buy wood.
You're figuring all this out!
Yes you are bbro! For the record, fire is hard. You're doing fine.
You said "last camping trip"? Not as in most recent, but the final trip? Until....? Nicer weather?
Thanks Griff! And BigV
So, by "my last camping trip", I mean the last one SCHEDULED for the year. I would like to go again, but I'm not sure if I could. I would only be able to do single night trips since I have a new job that's contract - no days off. I still will take the day after thanksgiving off, so I am thinking about taking a trip then.
I actually was thinking of going next week since I have days off I am taking before the company takes them all. Instead, I'm going to have to log in once a day. I am thinking of an overnighter at the park I went to for my very first trip. either that or I'm going to get a bunch of stamps on the parks I missed because of weather. I kind of prefer the cooler camping because of fires. And I don't sweat.
I am unexpectedly unemployed this week (New job start date was delayed), so I am going camping. I am going to the same site as last time. I still need pictures from that park and I liked it. Soooo, :)
I'm so freaking excited! I know what to expect at camp, so it's gonna be AWESOME. I can't wait. There's going to be some epic food.
Start the lunch fire at 9am.
@Grav - lunch is soup on the stove! No fire needed. So, I'll start it at 2pm for dinner at 6pm :thumb2:
@cap - Steak! Potatoes! Chicken! Gravy! I'm so excited!!! HOT DOGS!
Buy some silver queen corn on the cob with the shucks intact. Soak in water for a hour. Put them on the coals of fire turning occasionally. The shucks will have burnt spots, but won't catch on fire and it might be burnt near the tassels. The corn steams inside the shuck. When you figure its done peel the shuck down until you have a handy handle as the corn will be HOT.
Cut a head of cabbage into eighths. Buttersaltpepperwhatever, wrap the eighths (separately) in foil, cook 'em in the fire like a baked potato.
Til they're done, that's how long.
If you catch fish, fillet or use headless depending on size of fish. Do not remove the scales. Lay on tin foil over the grill. Salt and pepper whatever. Leaving the scales on keeps the fish from sticking to the foil. The fish will cook fast so watch them.
Thanks for the food suggestions. I'll try them another time. I was mostly excited about what I had planned ;)
It rained. Again. But, I managed to get all the food cooked before it did. There were 10+ mph winds and wind. I definitely need a new tent. The walls were soaked and my sleeping bag, air mattress, clothes, anything touching the walls was wet. There was even a puddle of water when I cleaned everything up the next day. Not good. Drops of water on my face through the mesh.
So, on the hunt for a tent now. If anyone has any suggestions. Or even things to look for in a tent. Only if REI sells it. So I can take it back if I hate it. I'll have pictures later.
A good design of a tent will have a rainfly that covers the entire tent, but is some distance away from the tent, so when the water soaks into the rainfly and beads up on the underside, it doesn't touch the inner tent to get it wet.
Condensation is usually a bigger problem. It's almost always warmer and more humid inside a tent than outside the tent. It's most pronounced in cooler weather, but can happen on a hot summer night too. Moisture from your breath collects on the inside of the tent and condenses there where it meets the slightly cooler temperature from the outside.
The ideal way to avoid condensation is to have lots of ventilation. Again, the best tents for fighting moisture have a nice big rainfly that stands off the tent by several inches. The fly will get wet from rain or condensation, but the inner tent stays dry. Helps if the inner tent has a lot of screening for ventilation.
I have a Slumberjack Trail 3 that is really good at keeping me dry in rain and condensation situations. But it's a heavy 8 pounds. Not too expensive at around $110.
REI probably doesn't sell it. Not expensive enough for them.
… Only if REI sells it. So I can take it back if I hate it. ...
This is going to severely limit you.
Prior to the 1980s, REI was a wonderful place. They used the experienced staff's knowledge and the co-op's buying power to select the best brand name products on the market, in each price range, and make them affordable to more people. There was something for everyone.
They changed, going for increased profits by handling only the big sellers, the higher profit margin brand names (even if they weren't as good as others) and having lesser quality stuff (with similar features) made at lower cost to them under their own brand name.
Now, it's primarily a place for novices. It's also fine for little items and for when you need something on short notice. Most of the people who can give you good advice on what's best; however, even just what's best within a price range, have moved on from REI and you're wasting their time. If you want suggestions on only REI merchandise, that's what the REI staff is for.
BTW, I've been an REI member for 30 years and despite that as a member I still get dividends, I haven't shopped there in over 10 years.
Several sites recommend the Coleman Sundome. Amazon has the 2 person for $38.22 and 4 person for $52.97. Not much risk there.
snip--
BTW, I've been an REI member for 30 years and despite that as a member I still get dividends, I haven't shopped there in over 10 years.
Not sure if you don't know what an REI dividend is or you don't know how to tell time or you're just making shit up, but since REI dividends are only issued to active members, your statement can't be true.
My membership is lifetime. Notice that I didn't say I was an active member. If I walk in and make a purchase, I become an active member again for that year and I get dividends. Perhaps I should have said that I CAN (what I was implying) still get dividends. I hope that clarifies it for you. It's not that complicated.
The point; however, was that even though I still get dividends (because I'm still a member) if I were to make purchases there, it's not enough to entice me to shop there anymore.
@glatt - thanks for the tips. I am looking at ones that have full size rainflys. If I thought I could, I'd make one for my tent. This one does have a lot of venting - almost too much when it's cold (for me) out. Luckily, the sleeping bag seemed to work well in keeping me warm this time.
@sexobon - Yep, I understand it's limiting. You give me another option that allows 100% refund in one year regardless of the condition of the item that isn't Costco or something similar and I will check it out.
@Bruce - unfortunately, that's the one I have. The rainfly isn't large enough. I don't know who those people are that are saying that they are staying dry in a storm, but I don't think they have the same definition of storm. Or they're lying.
A post so nice she said it twice.:D
A post so nice she said it twice.:D
Whoops! I blame my shitty computer. I swear I only clicked post once!! Fixed :D
Why not add a bigger fly to the tent you have?
Why not add a bigger fly to the tent you have?
In what way? I've looked and I don't see a DIY article out there that can help. They don't seem to sell rainflys alone.
I've made the food pics into collages for easier viewing. The first night, I got there late, so I just had some soup. It wasn't exciting, so I didn't take a picture. It was even missing chicken because I was smart and brought the canned chicken that needed a can opener. :right:
The next day, it was supposed to rain. I wanted to make sure that I got to use my hot dog fork, so that's what I had for breakfast :biggrin:
I also successfully cooked a potato! Remember last time it got all burned?? I'm learning.
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Before lunch, I decided to experiment with some small loaf pans I got at the grocery store. Potatoes and eggs. I thought it would be a neat thing to make breakfast in a loaf pan. Unfortunately, I over cooked it slightly. It still needs some tweaking. The potatoes on the other hand, were great! Such a lovely crust on the bottom
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For my actual lunch meal, I had some of the potatoes, steak, and frozen cauliflower. That, too, needs some tweaking. The coals under it were too hot or I left it too long. Still, I enjoyed it. The steak was slightly underdone for me, but still good. Luckily, it was still in my tasty range. Do you see the crust on the taters? It's a little over because I "reheated" them on some coals before lunch
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This next one was an experiment I was eager to try - mashed potatoes, chicken gravy, and chicken (of course). I used instant mashed potatoes with powdered milk. I think it worked out ok. It might have been better with something other than non-fat milk. It looks a little grey. I also used butter buds, but I don't think I added enough, I couldn't taste anything buttery at all. I added the dry ingredients to my insulated jar, poured in boiling water, closed it, and let it sit. Next, I heated up the chicken I cooked earlier (a little well done). The gravy mix said to mix it with cold water, so I used the dry potato jar to do that. I boiled some more water and added that to finish it. The potatoes were still hot in the jar, add some chicken, and gravy on top. This would have been better without the burned chicken, but I think it was an over all successful experiment
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In what way? I've looked and I don't see a DIY article out there that can help. They don't seem to sell rainflys alone.
A rainfly is nothing but a damn tarp to keep the rain off the tent, preferably not touching the tent.
Summer camping is always interesting. Last summer we made a camping with all of my friends. The tour was 7 days long. We made a tent for camping in the forest. We all enjoyed a lot there.
Stash a compass in case you get lost or captured. ;)
Yeah, I got Kevlar thread, and a drawer full o' rare earth magnet rods right here.
And ya could keep it in ya jail wallet.
Use Spectra instead of Kevlar which loses some of its strength when it gets wet.
I prefer the old needle-and-a-silk-hanky.
I have needles and silk hankies.
Low on spectra and kevlar atm.:)
YOU have silk hankies?
There may, or may not, be one, or more in my possession.
I mean:
What? I ain't good enough to have a silk handkerchief?:eyebrow:
You ain't effeminate enough for silk hankies. You don't blow your nose or wipe your brow, or check your oil with those things.
Didn't say I used 'em. I said I had some.;)
I have about three dozen reglar ol cotton booger vaults.
As a kid, I used to think only old men always had a handkerchief in their back pocket. Apparently I was an old man @ 35.
I'm camping.
Perfect day.
Deception Pass State Park.
There are pix.
Yes, sprinkles every day till next Sunday, May 5th. Not all day... but every fucking day.
Replace my old Spice stick with WD-40.
Speaking of camping...
Where the hell is Bbro?:eyebrow:
*That* is a good question.
Maybe the resurrection of this thread will draw her out.
A couple pics, then I have to get back to work.
Our campsite, #28
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Our dinner, Ribeye steak, sauteed onions, snow peas, shrimp. We eat good in camp.
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Speaking of camping...
Where the hell is Bbro?:eyebrow:
I'm still around, just don't check in too much. I went on one camping trip this year and left early because of an ineffectual camp host that let people yell at the top of their lungs all night and cut down trees. I also couldn't get the damn wood to light again. I know, I know, I need to get a fireplace log, but I haven't yet. I HAVE gotten a new tent, though.
This one for $80. It's nice, but I'm confused on how the full rainfly works. When I keep both of the sides extended and staked in rain, getting out of the tent is a little awkward....to say the least. BUT, it's so roomy!!
I'm currently unemployed, so I don't know if I can afford to go camping right now, but I might see if I can scrounge up some extra money to go during the week. It's cheaper then, too.
"I'm currently unemployed, so I don't know if I can afford to go camping right now, but I might see if I can scrounge up some extra money to go during the week. It's cheaper then, too."
Isn't camping sort of what broke homeless folks do all the time?
__________________
She doesn't camp in the woods, not the real woods.:stickpoke
She stays to the campgrounds, where it costs money.
Ain't too many homeless folks paying for a piece o' ground for the night, and buying firewood.:headshake
She doesn't camp in the woods, not the real woods.:stickpoke
She stays to the campgrounds, where it costs money.
Ain't too many homeless folks paying for a piece o' ground for the night, and buying firewood.:headshake
EXACTLY! Potty required. I actually need to check out hipcamp.com to see if there's anything cheaper. I don't remember the sites being so expensive last time, but I was working then, so it was kind of like "meh"
Check out Corps of Engineers campsites. They often have a dry camp area with composting toilets and central water supply for filling water jugs to take to camp. Same with some of the national forests. They are usually free.
Check out Corps of Engineers campsites. They often have a dry camp area with composting toilets and central water supply for filling water jugs to take to camp. Same with some of the national forests. They are usually free.
Thanks for the suggestions, but I couldn't find any free sites for either of them.
Most national forests have free backcountry camping. You just find a clear spot in the woods and set up camp. Gotta check the rules for each forest though, because there can be restrictions in certain areas. Above a certain elevation, near a reservoir, etc.
I'M GOING CAMPING THIS WEEKEND!!
Since it's so hot here, I'm going to try to find food to eat that I can heat on my little stove or no heat at all. Shouldn't be too hard.
I'M SO EXCITED.
Awesome.
I've planned a half day canoe trip followed by camping along the river in two weeks for the Troop. Looking forward to it.
This place:
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That is a pretty campground right peaceful looking.
Sent from my moto e5 supra using Tapatalk
If they're not mowing the grass.
Have fun bbro!
Griff - that looks like a nice site!
Bruce - I hope to lay in my hammock and read all the things :D
Griff - that looks like a nice site!
It does! I hope Glatt has a good time! :)
It does! I hope Glatt has a good time! :)
Whoops! :rolleyes:
Hey glatt! That looks like a nice site, too :blush:
I'll just blame it on my camping excitement. I saw the g and went with it
Heading back out to the woods again in a couple weeks. Last time, it was pretty relaxing except for the asshats that showed up for the last night blasting their bluetooth music. I told them to shut it down because camp hosts do fuck all. It would have been better if I was staying Sat-Mon, but since I was new to my job, I went Fri-Sun. They totally ruined my last day. My only happiness is that they didn't put rainflys on their tents and it rained. Yea, I'm an ass.
I successfully got through that weekend without cooking a single morsel - good thing since the hosts never greeted me to sell me wood. This time, I'll have to check the weather. It's still in the mid-eighties during the day here, but I'll be 2ish hours west in the mountains, so it might be nice and chilly. Good thing I JUST finished taking all the camping stuff out of my car this weekend (facepalm)
You Bitch, you did a rain dance didn't you. :facepalm:
You Bitch, you did a rain dance didn't you. :facepalm:
Not a dance per say....:jig:
Did it involve a pole and the giraffe suit?
Did it involve a pole and the giraffe suit?
It was too hot for the giraffe suit......maybe I should bring it next time :eyebrow:
About 25 years ago Stink Bugs came to a walmart in PA in a Chinese shipping container.
Now they're in almost all the lower 48 states. Mainly a house plant/garden nuisance but now
they are getting into farm crops.
Now we have a new one, the Spotted Lanternfly, came to PA and they are trying to contain it
but it's spreading. This bastard kills smooth bark trees by bleeding them to death.
The point is these guys and a few others are killing trees, lots of trees.
This is why the prohibition of the movement of firewood in so many places.
Bump, for the navigationally challenged.
Bump, for the navigationally challenged.
Thanks, Mr. Wayne
Take note, this is for Killer Bees, not Murder Bees...
If you are a real newbie in camping, I think, there is the reason to take some mates with you and distribute responsibilities with each others.
Together with my friends we bring 2-3 tents with us, one of us buy all the food from the list (which we create together), one of us take small grill, which is for home usage(like
these), but it is perfect for camping if you have a small generator with you.
Also one of us prepare all the tools like flash lights, shovel, ax and so on.
Sometimes we bring inflatable boat with us, if we are planning to stop near the river.
You take a generator and an electric indoor grill camping? :bonk:
Yeah, no, I ain't buying urrbody's food.
